According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 20.9 million adults in America (9.5% of adults) suffer from a depressive illness in any given year.

Depression presents itself into two main types. Major Depression impedes a person’s ability to function in all areas of his life (work, family, health). Dysthymia, a mild but long-term (chronic) form of depression, is not as severe but still impedes a person’s ability to function at normal levels.

Treatment for depression is effective 60-80% of time, however, less than 25% of individuals with depression receive adequate treatment (AAS).

Refer to the Depression Checklist below provided by the National Institute of Mental Health, and honestly evaluate whether the symptoms below are reoccurring in your life.

If you suffer from five or more of the following symptoms of depression and these symptoms are present for two weeks or longer without physical cause, you should contact Fairmount Behavioral Health System at 215-487-4100. Fairmount provides no cost assessments 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A psychiatrist is on site at all times. We are one of the leading treatment centers for depression and mental health counseling in Pennsylvania.

• Persistent sad or “empty” mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities, including sex
• Decreased energy, fatigue, being “slowed down”
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia, early-morning waking, or oversleeping)
• Eating disturbances (loss of appetite and weight, or weight gain)
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts
• Irritability
• Excessive crying
• Chronic aches and pains that don’t respond to treatment

In the workplace, depression may be recognized by:

• Decreased productivity
• Morale problems
• Lack of cooperation
• Safety problems, accidents
• Absenteeism
• Frequent complaints of being tired all the time
• Complaints of unexplained aches and pains
• Alcohol and drug abuse

Still unsure if you are suffering from depression? The World Health Organization’s “I have a black dog, his name is depression” is a great example story of how it feels to live with depression on a daily basis.

If a psychiatric disorder or chemical dependency affects you or a loved one, please call 215-487-4100. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to perform no-cost assessments and answer questions on programs and admissions.