The Link Between Depression and Disease

Posted September 11, 2007 at 05:00 PM by Katie Drummond

Section: Her Health, Her News

New research shows that depression is more just hard on your mind, but on your body too. In fact, the World Health Organization is urging anyone facing depression to address the illness, as it can worsen chronic disease and cause serious physical health problems.

The WHO studied depression rates in 245,404 adults worldwide, and compared the effect of depression on health with the effects of other conditions, including arthritis and asthma. Surprisingly, depression had the most significant impact on worsening health.

The study found that, regardless of country or demographics, those with depression and a chronic disease had the worst health scores of anyone participating in the study.

Unfortunately for many, depression is rarely considered as serious as illnesses that manifest themselves with physical symptoms. However, this research proves that depression is not only a problematic condition in itself, but can actually make other health woes more worrisome.

So what can you do to address depression and prevent it from taking a toll on your health? If you think you may be suffering from depression, seek the attention of a medical professional immediately. Counseling, and possibly medication, can make a lasting difference in dealing with your depression - and ensuring better health overall.