Black America Needs to Acknowledge Depression, Says U.S. Congressional Black Caucus

Depression is a growing crisis among black women. Many prominent blacks attended the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 2007 Annual Legislative Conference. The unmet health needs of black women were among the topics they discussed. In a recent press release, they urge the black community to acknowledge depression and help black women.

Mental Health America did a recent survey. Their information is startling. Their survey found that over half, 63 percent, of African American's believe that depression is a personal weakness. Only 31 percent think that it's an actual medical problem that can be treated.

Depression is the main cause of suicide in America. Twice as many women become depressed as men. Between 17 to 20 million people are affected by depression. Statistics show that depression affects more black women than white women.

There are a variety of reasons for the higher rate of depression among African American women. They face problems that many of their white counterparts don't contend with. Racism, poverty, large family size, and social disadvantages are just a few. There are many more.

The U.S. Congressional Black Caucus wants to raise awareness of depression in African American women. Because the African American community doesn't view depression as a medical illness, fewer black women seek treatment for depression.

"Black women have always taken care of us -- their men, their children, and their community. I have seen first-hand the damaging effects of depression, and it's past time we support our women and educate the black community to recognize depression for what it is -- a medical illness that is nothing to be ashamed of,"

said Eddie Levert, lead singer of the musical group, the O-Jays."One thing about black women is that they are survivors... we need to solve a growing crisis among black women who remain silent about this disease in an effort to appear strong," said Rep. Carson.

Depression can cause other medical problems, including obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease.