Depression

Overview

Depression is an illness that involves the body, mood and thoughts. It affects the way a person eats and sleeps, the way one feels about oneself, and the way one thinks about things. Depression is not the same as a passing blue mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness. People with depression cannot just "pull themselves together" or will themselves to get better. Without treatment, symptoms such as sadness, lack of hope and loss of interest in life can last for weeks, months or even years. The right treatment, however, can help most people with depression. Treatment may include counseling, support and medication.

Note: This topic was prepared to help consumers find reliable health resources on the web. This site is not responsible for the information on other sites. The information here — and on all websites — is not intended to be a substitute for care by a health professional.

Take a Confidential Screening Test

Connections Program: This confidential online screening may help you decide whether it's time to seek professional assistance for a mental-health issue. This screening tool is provided through Connections, a program provided by the Health District of Northern Larimer County and the Larimer Center for Mental Health.

Are You Depressed?

These screening tests are meant to help you decide whether you might have depression. They should not take the place of talking with your doctor. If you think you have depression, call your family doctor or call Connections, a local mental health information and referral source, at (970) 221-5551.

DepressionScreening.org: This depression-screening website is provided by Mental Health America.

Online Depression Screening Test, New York University School of Medicine: The New York University School of Medicine offers this online screening tool.

Managing Depression

Depression and Other Illnesses, MedlinePlus: This site has information about the link between depression and chronic or terminal illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, HIV/AIDS and Alzheimer's.

Local Resources

Connections: Connections is a joint project of the Larimer Center for Mental Health and the Health District, providing mental health and substance abuse resources for Larimer County residents.

HealthInfoSource.com: Search this site to find a therapist or other mental health professional in the Fort Collins area.

Men and Depression: Search this local website for resources for men with depression. The site describes how depression may affect men and women differently. The website is sponsored by the Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Partnership of Larimer County.

Poudre River Public Library District: Search the library collection for books about depression, or use the library's health, sciences and technology databases.

Still Looking?

Best Health Sites: Ready to explore the World Wide Web of health information on your own? This collection of web links, organized by site type, will help you find the health information you're looking for.

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