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In this Issue: Mental Health Focus on Depression: Nearly 1 in 10 people suffer from some form of depression Depression in Older Adults: Depression is common in older adults, but not a normal part of aging Get Moving: Exercise is one way to improve mental health For a comprehensive list of May health observances - visit our 2007 National Health Observances page in the Health Library. May: National Mental Health Month Nearly 57 million people suffer from a diagnosable mental illness each year. Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, and schizophrenia are all examples of mental illnesses. According to the U. S. Surgeon General’s report on mental health, more than half of all Americans with a severe mental illness fail to get treatment due to:    Lack of awareness of the problem    Fear of a stigma    Lack of access to services Focus on Depression Every year nearly 1 in 10 people suffer from some form of depression. Depression is an illness that involves your body, mood, and thoughts. It affects the way you eat and sleep, the way you feel about yourself, and the way you think about things. It is not a sign of personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away. In fact, a combination of family history, brain chemistry, and situational factors such as the loss of a loved one can cause depression. Depression is often linked with changes in the brain. The brain controls our emotions and feelings. The cells of the brain, known as neurons, communicate with each other using special chemical compounds called “neurotransmitters.” In a depressed person, there is an imbalance in their neurotransmitters. The good news is that there are treatments for depression. BACK TO TOP Depression and Older Adults Depression is a common problem among older adults, but it is NOT a normal part of aging. When older adults do suffer from depression, it may be overlooked because they may be less willing than younger people to talk about feelings of sadness or grief, and doctors may be less likely to suspect or spot it. Life changes such as retirement, health problems, or the loss of a loved one may cause feelings of uneasiness, stress, and sadness. It is normal to feel sad during these times, but if these feelings persist, you should talk to your doctor. Mental Health Self Assessment Have you or a loved one felt down, depressed, or hopeless for two or more weeks? Have you or a loved one felt little interest or pleasure in daily activities for two or more weeks? If you answered YES to one or both of these questions, talk to your doctor about how you are feeling. For mental health services in your area visit: http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/databases/ BACK TO TOP Mental Health Myths and Facts Myth: There's no hope for people with mental illnesses. Fact: There are more treatments, services, and community support systems than ever before. Myth: Mental illnesses are brought on by a weakness of character. Fact: Mental illnesses are a product of the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors. Social influences, like the loss of a loved one or a job, can also play a role. Myth: People with mental illnesses are violent and unpredictable. Fact: The majority of people with mental illnesses are no more violent than anyone else. People with mental illnesses are actually much more likely to be the victims of crime. Myth: Mental illnesses don't affect me. Fact: Mental illnesses are surprisingly common; they affect almost every family in America. Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration www.whatadifference.samhsa.gov/ Did you know? Regular physical activity reduces feelings of depression and anxiety while promoting mental health and reducing feelings of stress. Get Moving: Tips for Seniors In addition to reducing feelings of depression, 30 minutes of physical activity a day can improve circulation, boost your immune system, and slow the progression of osteoporosis. Here are some tips to get you moving:    Warm up before exercising    Don't do too much too fast    Choose activities that you enjoy and can do regularly    Drink lots of water    Try a class on Tai Chi or Yoga    Consult your physician BACK TO TOP Get Involved Thousands of Americans will take to the streets beginning May 1, 2007 to raise public awareness of mental illnesses. Would you like to join them? Visit www.nami.org/namiwalks to find a mental health awareness walk in your area. For more resources on mental health, physical activity and other health topics, visit: www.healthfinder.gov Resources Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/highlights/may2006/mentalhealth/default.asp#hree Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General www.surgeongeneral.gov/library/mentalhealth/home.html National Library of Medicine www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorials/depression/htm/_no_50_no_0.htm National Institute of Mental Health www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/depression.cfm Administration on Aging www.aoa.gov/eldfam/eldfam.asp NIH SeniorHealth.gov http://nihseniorhealth.gov/ Mental Health America www.mentalhealthamerica.net/go/may (National Mental Health Month Website) American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/fact/thr_report.cfm?Thread_ID=411&topcategory=Wellness BACK TO TOP

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Content last updated April 30, 2007