If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Cultura RM / Frank and Helena/ Collection Mix: Subjects / Getty Images
Among veterans with PTSD, 68% also have depression.
If you’ve received a dual diagnosis, here’s why the conditions may be related.
At a Glance
Depression and post-traumatic stress disorder often go hand in hand.
If you have both condition, talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
Medications and therapy can be particularly helpful.
Depression is more intense, lasts longer, and has a large negative impact on your life.
At least one of these symptoms must be either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure.
How Depression and PTSD Are Connected
PTSD and depression may be connected in a number of ways.
Some people with PTSD may feeldetached or disconnectedfrom friends and family.
They may also find little pleasure in activities they once enjoyed.
Finally, they may even have difficulty experiencing positive emotions like joy and happiness.
Family history is known to be a major risk factor for the development of depression.
If you currently have PTSD and depression, it’s also important to get treatment as soon as possible.
Each disorder may make the other worse.
The presence of both conditions can complicate the treatment process.
Your doctor or psychiatrist will recommend treatment options that are best suited to your unique situation.
This might involve the use of psychotherapy, such as CBT, as well as anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications.
Self-help options such as lifestyle changes oronline therapycan also be used to complement professional treatments.
Takeaways
It isn’t uncommon for depression and post-traumatic disorder to occur together at the same time.
Both can stem from trauma, but genetics can play a role in increasing the risk as well.
Having PTSD can also contribute to the onset of depression.
That’s why it’s so important to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment for both conditions.
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National Institute of Mental Health.Major depression.
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Washington, D.C.; 2022.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.Depression, trauma, and PTSD.
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Biehn TL, Contractor A, Elhai JD, et al.
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