If you have depression you are not alone.
In fact, as of January 2005 it was estimated that over 18 million adults in America suffered from some form of depression.
This translates to about 9.
5% of the population of people over 18, this included other diseases that are related to it, like dysthymic disorder, as well as bipolar disorder.
Antidepressants are in fact the most prescribed drug in America today, which is sad because it is also the most overly prescribed medication as well.
Depression is also said to be among the greatest problems of our generation, and possibly the biggest killer of our time as well.
This is probably why antidepressants are so widely distributed.
Unfortunately, these drugs are not supposed to be given to one of the most growing members of our society that are suffering, children.
In fact, these drugs can actually heighten the effects of this disease in young people, and if they are prescribed, they have to continuously be monitored to make sure they do not commit suicide.
Preschool children are among the fastest growing markets for future antidepressants, and an estimated four percent of kids have some kind of depression, and this rate is increasing, by about 23%.
This age group is also where this disease first starts, and is also the most undiagnosed area of the population.
Here are some other things about depression that you should know about as well.
Standard antidepressants, ones like Prozac, Zoloft, and Paxil, do not work for many people.
Only 30% of the people taking these medications have even found relief.
These drugs also come with many risks, both behaviorally, and well as physically.
Some of the behavioral problems that can occur are increased risk for suicide, psychosis, and even violent tendencies have been known.
The physical effects can include kidney and liver damage, as well as an assortment of other problems.
Here are some other things that you need to know about depression.
Antidepressants, even ones that may work for you, only mask the disease itself.
They are not a cure all for being depressed.
Unless you get to the root of the matter, whether it is a chemical imbalance, or some traumatic event that happened in your life, you need to address these issues before you can heal.
In some cases, depression does not go away at all.
Now for the good news.
You do not need these harmful antidepressants to help you with your depression.
In fact, there are many natural remedies that can alleviate the symptoms of this disease, and help you feel better.
There is diet and exercise, natural products, and even meditation that can help.
You can get a therapy pet, like a dog or a cat, or even some other animal that will give you undying attention.
There are many different resources online to also help you.
You can find out about what many of the symptoms of depression are, and the facts about antidepressants.
You need to educate yourself as much as you can about this disease, whether you or someone you know is suffering.
This is the only way you are going to help them, or yourself.