Despite great advances in treating clinical depression, a very small proportion of people with the disorder are actually diagnosed. Only 18 percent of those suffering from depression or a generalized anxiety disorder have ever received an official diagnosis or treatment, according to the results of the second annual America's Mental Health Survey 2001, presented at that year's National Mental Health Association (NMHA) meeting.
The survey of 3,239 adults found that 44 percent of undiagnosed depression sufferers believe their symptoms are self-manageable. As a result, they turn to self-help techniques such as prayer, rest, exercise, sleep and emotional support from family members and friends over professional help. And because of the stigma associated with mental health disorders, 42 percent of people with a formal diagnosis are embarrassed or ashamed by their symptoms.
