Parenting Pointers with Dr. Claudia - Episode 891

Topic - Depression shortens life span Depression can shorten your life span and it’s not due to suicide. A 60-year study of a large group of adults revealed the importance of treating depression when it occurs. Adults at the highest risk for premature death were those who had just experienced an event. People with multiple depressive episodes during the study were also at the highest risk. Treating the disorder itself increases the odds of survival. Health risks such as poor diet, smoking, drinking to excess and being inactive occur with depression. How much shorter could your life be? It depends on your gender, but the range is 7 to 18 years. Depressed men were much more likely to die, but both groups evened out at 51% by the end of the study. The risk of depression drops over time, so get it treated, stay as healthy as possible and be aware of the risks.