Ellen Campbell-Grizzle
IT IS still a rare thing for a Jamaican man to fill a prescription for his depression. Jamaican pharmacists report that such prescriptions are usually presented by female bearers who might explain that 'him head tek him'. We still do not know if depression is less among men or if men are less likely than women to acknowledge and seek help for depression. However, the 2001 National Household Study (NHS) commissioned by the National Council on Drug Abuse found the rate among females (23 per cent was over 1.5 times the rate among males (14 per cent).
There is international concern that men may not be coming forward to seek treatment for depression. Recently, the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) conducted a study to assess depression awareness among men and found that men own symptoms of depression without realising that they are depressed.
The study found that men did not associate physical symptoms such as headaches and digestive disorders with depression. In addition, men were wary about seeking mental health care because they feared negative backlash from family, workplace, friends and community. It appeared to be an act of courage for men to seek treatment for depression.
We would like to encourage Jamaican men who suffer with depression to seek medical help. They should visit their pharmacists also, to benefit from important information first hand. It is important to remember that depression is a serious medical condition and not the same as a passing blue mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness and one 'cannot just get a grip' and 'snap out of it'. Without treatment, symptoms can last for months or years. However, appropriate treatment, including medication and psychotherapy, offers help and hope.
Experts tell us of the following common warning signs of depression:
Persistent sad, anxious or 'empty' mood.
Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness.
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and once enjoyable activities.
Decreased energy leading to a sense of fatigue.
Trouble sleeping and early morning waking.
Changes in appetite.
Thoughts of death or suicide.
Restlessness or irritability.
Persistent physical symptoms, such as headaches and chronic pain, that do not respond to treatment.
DEPRESSION THROUGH THE LIFE STAGES
Depression in young people is of real concern. The illness in young people is associated with an increased risk of alcohol and drug abuse. The Jamaican 2001 NHS found 'a strong relationship between substance use and depression. Persons who were using tobacco, alcohol and illicit substances, unprescribed painkillers and sedatives were significantly more likely to report that they experienced five or more symptoms of depression during the same period than those who had never used a substance'. The NIMH and several other expert groups make a strong link between depression and disruptive behaviour, substance abuse or suicidal attempts. Remember, depression is not a normal part of ageing.
GET TREATED
Biomedical research has shed light on how our biochemistry goes awry when depression strikes. Scientists can see how effective therapies change brain activities leading to a better quality of life for those who suffer with depression.
There are several types of medication used to treat depression with a plethora of side effects. Many require close monitoring and may interact with other medicines and herbals. Make sure that your medication is prescribed by a physician and that your pharmacist explains side effects and interactions.
Ellen Campbell-Grizzle, president, Caribbean Association of Pharmacists; director, Information & Research, National Council on Drug Abuse; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
