New Treatments for Depression
Major Depression is more common than most imagine with over 14 million Americans being affected. Over 50 percent of depressed patients will experience at least another depression. Besides having a persistent depressed mood that does not go away for long, depressed people also cannot enjoy themselves like before, have sleeping problems (either too little or too much sleep), disturbances in appetite (too much or too little), have poor concentration, fatigue, feel guilt ridden and agitated and may have suicidal behavior (thoughts of death, or even suicide attempts).
Because depression can affect so many aspects of life, it is not surprising that depression can have such a negative impact on marriage and family life, social relationships and one’s ability to work. Of great concern is the fact that when people are depressed, they have an increased prevalence of self-destructive acts and suicidal behavior. Clearly, when people are down and gloomy, they may be only pessimistic and unable to see a future for themselves. Thus, due to the possible severe consequences of depression such as daily suffering, decrease in ones ability to function and possible suicidal behavior, depression should be treated.
Antidepressant medications have been a godsend in the treatment of depression. Many people have been able to respond and be like their normal selves within four—eight weeks. Their doom and gloom has disappeared like a bad cold. Unfortunately, approximately 40—50 percent either fail to respond to routine treatments and or have undesirable side effects leading to early discontinuation of the medication. Therefore, new treatments are necessary.
Our Anxiety and Depression Program at Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, NY and in Mount Kisco, NY has been a leader in the field of treating depression over the last 30 years. We have participated in studying and developing many of the available antidepressants today. Currently, we are studying a number of new research medications that show promise in treating depression.
Our program is unique in that services are provided at a University Hospital of a major medical school of New York. Some of our doctors are recognized in New York Magazine’s “Best Doctors.” Participation in our clinical research programs, including medication, as well as physical and laboratory examinations, are free of charge. A small travel stipend is also provided for participants.
If you would like to be considered for treatment as a participant in one of the anxiety or depression studies at Montefiore’s Anxiety and Depression Clinic, contact Dr. Asnis, The Medical Director of the Anxiety and Depression Program of Montefiore Medical Center at (718) 920-4287 or (914) 241-2734.