FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 19, 2006
Contact: Cyndi Alvarado (936) 760-7860
At The Woodlands Mall on August 12, 2006
The Woodlands, TX -- On Saturday, August 12, at 10 a.m., Sadler Clinic will sponsor a presentation entitled “Depression in Women: Just One More Ball You Have To Juggle?" given by Family Medicine Specialist Dr. Catherine Hart. It will take place in Future Court at The Woodlands Mall (first level across from JC Penney).
Major depression affects twice as many women as men, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. This ratio holds true across all ethnic and socioeconomic strata, and even age groups. As early as age 15, adolescent females are twice as likely to experience depression as adolescent males.
“Research indicates that sometimes physical factors, such as hormones, genetics, and biochemistry play a role in the incidence of depression in women,” notes Dr. Hart. “The important thing for women to know, though, is that depression does not have to play a major role in our lives. It is a highly treatable illness.”
Dr. Hart’s presentation will cover the major types of depression, including major depression, dysthymia, and bipolar disorder. “Once you have a foundational knowledge of what depression is,” Dr. Hart continues, “and you understand that it is not just a passing mood or a week of more disappointment than usual, then you can truly address the causes and symptoms.
“There are more medications now, specifically designed to treat depression, than at any other time in history, as well as numerous options for psychotherapies. But even more important is the need to share information on this important topic, so that women will know what the symptoms of depression are and what to do about them.”
Symptoms that can indicate clinical depression include: Inability to sleep or sleeping too much; excessive restlessness, irritability or crying; significant weight loss or weight gain; feelings of guilt, hopelessness, worthlessness; persistent sadness; loss of interest in activities; difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions; thoughts of death or suicide.
Dr. Hart adds, “Often we find that persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, chronic pain, and stomach problems are also an indication of depression. Depression can have physical causes and physical symptoms, as well as emotional and mental ones.”
Dr. Hart earned her MD degree from the University of Vermont College of Medicine and her BA degree from Oberlin College in Ohio. She completed her Family Practice Residency at Self Memorial in Greenwood, South Carolina.
For more information, contact Cyndi Alvarado at 936.760.7860 or calvarado@sadler.com.