Coordinator says depression treatable
by Jeni Bridges
reporter

Magazines and televisions shows are filled with ads for anti-depressant drugs, but few people know how to recognize depression.
“Depression is caused by a chemical imbalance of the brain,” Dr. Shelly Cavin, NW coordinator of special services, said.
“It can also be instigated by situational factors such as anxiety, stress and grieving. Often times the person feels trapped and helpless by a specific situation,” she added.
Dr. James H. Varnado, NE counselor, offered signs.
“Symptoms include low self-esteem, extreme sadness, feelings of emptiness, weight loss or weight gain, insomnia or over-sleeping, loss of interest in activities and feelings of guilt,” he said.
According to Cavin, other symptoms include irritability; difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions; a loss of energy and suicidal thoughts.
Symptoms can interfere with school, work and personal relationships, Cavin added.
“Some depressed people find it hard to concentrate and complete tasks in school and at work. Apathy and irritability can affect personal relationships,” she said.
“Approximately 20 percent of students may experience depression at one time or another,” she said.
Varnado said, “Depression is as common as the common cold.”
According to Calvin, some people are more prone to the condition than others.
“Those who have had a member in their immediate family suffer from depression are at the greatest risk,” she said.
In most cases, depression can be cured, but in others it is simply managed, Calvin said.
“Depression can definitely be cured through the use of medication and increasing assertiveness and self-esteem through counseling and therapy,” Varnado said.
Larry Kimble, NW assistant professor of psychology, recommends another treatment.
“Social support is a key factor to overcoming depression,” he said.
“Behavior,” Cavin said, “should be addressed through behavior modification or cognitive therapy.”
If someone thinks he has depression, he should contact his doctor, the TCC counselors advise. Mental Health Mental Retardation of Tarrant County can provide services for those without health insurance or money to pay for a private practitioner, Calvin said.
“If left untreated, depression can lead to suicide,” Kimble said.