Major depression is a treatable illness that affects the way a person thinks, feels, behaves, and functions. At any point in time, 3-5 percent of people suffer from major depression; the lifetime risk is about 17 percent. For more information about depression and other mental health issues, visit the following websites:

• National Institute of Mental Health 
• American Psychological Association 
• Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance 
• Suicide Awareness/Voices of Education 
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America
• Stanford School of Medicine
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
• Mental Health America
• CommUnity

Anxiety

Anxiety helps us get out of harm’s way and prepare for important events, and it warns us when we need to take action.

But you may experience anxiety that is persistent, seemingly uncontrollable, and overwhelming. If it’s an excessive, irrational dread of everyday situations, it can be disabling. When anxiety interferes with daily activities, you may have an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric illnesses affecting children and adults. An estimated 40 million American adults suffer from anxiety disorders. Only about one-third of those suffering from an anxiety disorder receive treatment even though the disorders are highly treatable.

• Understanding the Facts of Anxiety Disorders and Depression is the First Step (Anxiety and Depression Association of America)
• Anxiety (American Psychological Association)
• What are Anxiety Disorders (National Institutes of Health)
• Therapy (Anxiety and Depression Association of America)