Denial or stigma keep many adults from getting help for depression

Philip Copitch, Ph.D. - Author of Change: How to bring real change to your life: The psychology and secrets of highly effective people

A study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine (8/2016) notes that:

Despite recent increased use of antidepressants in the United States, concerns persist that many adults with depression do not receive treatment, whereas others receive treatments that do not match their level of illness severity.

The study screened 46,000 Americans for depression finding that about 8 percent showed diagnosable symptoms. On follow-up, only 1 in 3 were getting treatment. 

The reasons for the gap in treatment were complicated. Some respondents avoided care because of stigma or denial. Others had limited access and/or lack of insurance. 

The researchers point out:

…critical treatment gaps persist, especially for racial / ethnic minorities, low income individuals, less educated adults, and uninsured people.

Read the study