Take a look at this article from today’s Washington Post.
Up to 25 percent of people in whom psychiatrists would currently diagnose depression may only be reacting normally to stressful events such as a divorce or losing a job, according to a new analysis that reexamined how the standard diagnostic criteria are used.
[...]
The new study, however, found that extended periods of depression-like symptoms are common in people who have been through other life stresses such as a divorce or a natural disaster and that they do not necessarily constitute illness.
The study also suggested that drug treatment may often be inappropriate for people who are experiencing painful — but normal — responses to life’s stresses. Supportive therapy, on the other hand, may be useful — and may keep someone who has been through a divorce or has lost a job from going on to develop full-blown depression.
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April 4, 2007 at 10:34 am
Eric
I recently read an amazing article from a fantastic Chinese doctor on treatment of various Liver problems and Hepatitis C, etc..
There are also some very interesting alternative treatments for Anxiety and Depression on his site -
http://www.alchemistlab.com/otherillnesses4.html
Peace,
Eric
April 8, 2007 at 7:58 am
Sonya
Excellent article, Josh. I wish more people and doctors would accept MOST emotional reactions to MOST life stressors as normal, and not necessarily requiring medication. Support and therapy and time are all that’s needed in so many cases - yet everyone wants the quick fix.