MCG HEALTH SYSTEM RECOGNIZES NATIONAL MENTAL HEALTH MONTH

Augusta, Ga. - The war in Iraq and the recent SARS epidemic may have triggered feelings of anxiety that can lead to depression and stress. Both, if left untreated, can affect your personal relationships, your work, as well as your physical well-being.

"Mental health plays a large role in ensuring physical health," said Dr. Peter Buckley, Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior at MCG Health System. "In fact, studies have shown that those who have been provided support and treatment for mental disorders such as depression have required less long-term medical care."

In recognition of May as National Mental Health Month, Dr. Buckley offers the following warning signs and ways to overcome depression.

Warning Signs of Depression

• Irritability
• Excessive crying
• Aches and pains that don't respond to treatment
• Sleeping problems
• Eating problems, such as loss of appetite and weight gain or loss
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Thoughts of death
• Suicide attempts
• A persistent sad, anxious or "empty" mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities

Ways to Help Yourself

• Talk about your feelings with supportive family members and friends
• Get involved in an activity that you enjoy
• Avoid isolating yourself
• Keep your daily routine
• Exercise regularly
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Avoid drinking alcohol
• Seek help and counseling

To learn more about mental illness and for other resources such as the Georgia Mental Health Network, visit the MCG Department of Psychiatry and Health Behavior web site at www.mcghealthcare.org/mental/index.htm. For outpatient assessments and care, call 706-721-3141.

MCG Health System is composed of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the Medical College of Georgia and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care. For more information, visit MCGHealth.org.