During my twenty years of depression I did not have any chronic physical illnesses.

Which probably would have made my depression woes compound with interests.

Diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure are chronic physical illnesses that if coupled with depression will have devastating effects, if untreated.

Recent World Health Organization (WHO) survey indicated that,

“Depression produced the greatest decrement in health of any chronic disease, and the co-morbid state of depression incrementally worsen health more than any other disease combination.”

Sobering health facts from the CDC:

13% of African American of all ages in fair or poor health.

72% of African American men 20 years and over are overweight. (2003-2006)

80% of African American women 20 years and over are overweight. (2003-2006)

39% of African American men 20 years and over have hypertension. (2003-2006)

43% of African American women 20 years and over have hypertension. (2003-2006)

Depression is common with people with physical illness. Recognizing risks and factors are essential in getting treatment for the depression. Symptoms of depression may be masked possibly by attribute to medication side affects.

Mood swings, anger, isolation then become the norm. “The medication changing his mood.”

Its important we educate ourselves in recognizing the symptoms of depression in people with chronic diseases.

Tomorrow (Part Two)

How do you recognize depression in physical illnesses?