By Shayna Miller
Madison Magazine
Special To Channel 3000

We've all had a case of the blues. So what distinguishes these emotions from clinical depression? Area experts tell you what to look for.

Who's Affected

“There is an increased risk for women in the 35- to 45-year age range,” says Nancy Barklage, UW Health psychiatrist. “The previous cohort was in the later years. The risk keeps coming down, which is fascinating. What’s happening socially is that this group is taking care of young children while taking care of elderly people. Also, childbirth is delayed so you will get some women in that age range with postpartum depression, which increases the risk.”

Barklage also says that up until menstruation the risk for depression is a one-to-one ratio between girls and boys. After that it jumps to two-to-one: “Clearly, there is a hormonal component,” she adds.

In addition, those with substance abuse issues, chronic illness and family history have increased risk, says Tyler Rickers, UW Health psychiatrist and Meriter adult psychiatrist hospitalist.

What To Do

See a primary care physician if you think you have symptoms of depression or take an online screening. Webmd.com has a Depression Health Check tool and Nami.org and Meriter.com/risks have excellent fact sheets on symptoms, treatments and more. Of course, with any online research it’s recommended you talk to your doctor afterward.

Typically a primary care physician will refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist. From there the specialist will evaluate the severity of your symptoms and recommend different courses of treatment, sometimes psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, medication or a combination of these.

Barklage also recommends maintaining a healthy lifestyle. “Continue social interaction. Even if a person doesn’t feel like going out, changing one’s environment can be helpful. Simply spending time with people and helping others can be beneficial.”

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