The recession-depression connection

Many of the workers who’ve been hit the hardest by this recession are experiencing their own great depression – and with so many people out of work, it’s taking a toll on our overall mental health.

Unemployed Americans are four times more likely to suffer from mental illnesses such as severe depression than those who still have jobs, according to a new survey conducted by a consortium of mental health organizations.

In addition, unemployed people are four times more likely to consider harming themselves, six times more likely to have trouble meeting expenses, and less likely to seek help – often because they no longer have insurance.

And having a job doesn’t put you in the clear. Many workers have been forced to accept reduced hours or lower pay… and the survey found these kinds of changes can double the risk of depression. These people are also five times more likely to report feelings of hopelessness than those who haven’t experienced changes in the workplace.

The “official” unemployment rate is high enough – 9.8 percent according to the latest Labor Department figures. But those numbers only consider people actively looking for work. When you take into account workers who’ve had to settle for part-time jobs and people who have given up looking, the “true” rate is around 17 percent.

That’s a lot of people facing a high risk of mental health disorders.

But there’s a lot more to it than job status. The problems of depression and other mental health disorders aren’t just in the mind – they’re often in the diet, too.

Many of us eat junk in the best of times. In the worst of times, we’re even more inclined to turn to packaged foods, convenience-store fare, frozen dinners, fast food and worse. Like any other part of the body, our brain needs nutrients – and if it doesn’t get them, it will give you problems.

So if you’re getting the blues, start by eating better – whether you’ve been affected by the economy or not. If you need a little more help, remember that natural cures often top prescription drugs when it comes to mental health issues. One major review of the research found that simple, time-tested St. John’s wort beat all the standard meds, and with a much lower risk of side effects.

And that’s just the beginning.

Dr. Jonathan Wright has done some groundbreaking work treating depression with individualized amino acid supplements, and you can read more about his plan in his Nutrition & Healing newsletter.  While you’re there, consider signing up for a free subscription to his Health e-Tips newsletter to get more of his great insight on this and other issues.

Whatever the cause of your depression, don’t let it fester. Work with your doctor to find a safe, drug-free way out – and you won’t just have a better time on the job, but a better life overall.