William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital

Depressed woman with head in hand looking at the floor

Increasing awareness, about depression is also a way to support Veterans and military members. A 2008 survey found that 10 percent of U.S. Veterans aged 21-29, had one or more episodes of this mood disorder the previous year. Our service men and women deserve disgrace-free, easy to access treatment for depressive symptoms.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults in the U.S. age 18 and older each year. Depression is so common, that everyone will at some time in their life be affected by depression.

Clinical depression is a serious medical condition that if left untreated, may lead to other complicated medical conditions. Depression signs and symptoms may include, sadness, irritability, changes in appetite or sleep, trouble concentrating, body aches and pain or withdrawing from family, friends and activities you once enjoyed. A depression screening however, is often the first step to getting well.  Unfortunately, two-thirds of people who suffer from depression fail to seek the care needed. They mistakenly believe their symptoms are just a normal part of life. The good news for people who suffer with depression is, more than 80 percent of all cases of clinical depression can be treated effectively with medication, psychotherapy or a combination of both. Depression, even the most severe cases, is a highly treatable disorder.

As with any illness, the earlier the treatment begins, the more effective it is and the greater the likelihood the recurrence of depression can be prevented. If you or someone you know suffers from depression, help is available. Get screened-seek care.

The William S. Middleton Memorial Veteran’s Affairs Hospital and Clinics have Mental Health professionals that are trained to treat depression.  You can speak with your primary care provider about depression and he or she can help you find the correct and most convenient care.  In addition to medication and/or individual therapy, a number of group therapies are available.  Some examples include:

Madison
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression and Anxiety
Emotional Effectiveness Group
Vietnam Vets Coping Group
Dialectical Behavior Therapy Interpersonal Effectiveness Group

Janesville
Mood Management Group

Rockford
Anger Management Group
Mood Management Group

Go to the Madison Mental Health Services Link for more information:  http://www.madison.va.gov/services/mentalhealth.asp

The Vet Center is another good option for Combat Veterans.  All staff members who provide care in the Vet Centers are Veterans themselves.

Madison Vet Center
706 Williamson St., Madison, WI, 53703
608-264-5342
Open M-F from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
www.vetcenter.va.gov/