With the recent suicide of Def Jam VP SHAKIR STEWART and the recent overdose attempt of NBA legend ISAIAH THOMAS, clinical depression and the African-American community is more prevelant than ever. 

But there still remains a lot of confusion and stigma in the Black community over a very common and devastaing disorder: Clinical Depression.

We get so caught up int the judgement, speculation and rumors, that we forget that anyone who makes an attempt on their own life – or succeeds – isn’t doing so because of a job, a dispute or money. They are sick and need help.

According to a Surgeon General report, African Americans are over-represented in populations that are particularly at risk for mental illness. Depression robs people of the enjoyment found in daily life and can even lead to suicide. A common myth about depression is that it is “normal” for certain people to feel depressed—older people, teenagers, new mothers, menopausal women, or those with a chronic illness. The truth is that depression is not a normal part of life for any African American, regardless of age or life situation. Unfortunately, depression has often been misdiagnosed in the African American community.

The myths and stigma that surround depression create needless pain and confusion, and can keep people from getting proper treatment. The following statements reflect some common misconceptions about African Americans and depression: “Why are you depressed? If our people could make it through slavery, we can make it through anything.” “When a black woman suffers from a mental disorder, the opinion is that she is weak. And weakness in black women is intolerable.” “You should take your troubles to Jesus, not some stranger/psychiatrist.” The truth is that getting help is a sign of strength. People with depression can’t just “snap out of it.” Also, spiritual support can be an important part of healing, but the care of a qualified mental health professional is essential. And the earlier treatment begins, the more effective it can be.

Many factors can contribute to clinical depression, including cognitive issues (e.g., negative thinking patterns); biological and genetic factors; gender (it affects more women than men); other medications; other illnesses; and situational factors. For some, a number of these factors seem to be involved, while for others a single factor can cause the illness. Often, people become depressed for no apparent reason. In an effort to cope with the emotional pain caused by depression, some people try to “self-medicate” through the abuse of alcohol or illegal drugs, which only leads to more problems.

The good news is that, like other illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes, clinical depression is treatable with the help of a health care professional. In fact, over 80 percent of people with depression can be treated successfully.

Due to cultural backgrounds, depression may be exhibited differently among African Americans. To help decide if you—or someone you care about—needs an evaluation for clinical depression, review the following list of symptoms. If you experience five or more for longer than two weeks, if you feel suicidal, or if the symptoms interfere with your daily routine, see your doctor, and bring this sheet with you. n A persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood, or excessive crying n Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased appetite and weight gain n Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain n Irritability, restlessness n Decreased energy, fatigue, feeling “slowed down” n Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, hopelessness, pessimism n Sleeping too much or too little, early-morning waking n Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, including sex n Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions n Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts.

 If you or someone you know is in crisis now, seek help immediately. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24 hour crisis center or dial 911 for immediate assistance.

Information provided by Center of Disease Control & Mental Health America