Combating depression and anxiety with resiliency

  • Published
  • By Tanya R. Schimon
  • 71st Medical Operations Squadron
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Depression and anxiety occur throughout the population, including in the military. No one is spared, including children, adolescents, teens, adults and the older populations.

Symptoms of depression and anxiety include insomnia and hypersomnia, fatigue and mania, restlessness and irritability, difficulty with concentration, lack of pleasure, thoughts of escape, obsessive thoughts, guilt and feelings of worthlessness.

Depression is characterized by a "deep feelings of sadness or a marked loss of interest or pleasure in activities," according to the American Psychiatric Association.

Depression affects about one in 10 people age 18 and over in any given year. Almost 45 percent of those cases are classified as "severe" depression by the National Institute on Mental Health.

Anxiety has been known to control a person's sense of well-being, at times resulting in social isolation, sleep conditions, paralyzing fear and health concerns. Research findings have linked anxiety with a higher probability of suicide attempts.

Suicide is closely associated with depression and anxiety.

In 2010, 38,384 people killed themselves in the United States. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.

As many as 349 military suicides occurred in 2012. It is considered to be an epidemic. The number of suicides outnumbered the combat-related deaths.

Following accidents, suicide is the second leading cause of death in the military.

The Air Force's focus is on resiliency. What is it about resiliency that makes a difference? Resiliency helps people persevere through life's challenges and continue to perform at work, home and in the community.

Adaptation and overcoming risk and adversity are necessary qualities of resiliency. Resiliency is an acquired skill, fostered by relationships, confidence, problem solving, helping others, seeking assistance and the ability to communication.

There are four pillars of resiliency: mental, physical, social and spiritual.

The mental aspect of resiliency concerns a positive approach to life's challenges, including self- control, stamina and good character. Giving and accepting assistance is a core element.

The physical pillar of resiliency concerns physical fitness, which contributes to endurance, strength, flexibility and body composition. It revolves around rest, exercise and eating well.

The social element of resiliency involves the development and sustainment of satisfying relationships which encourage an exchange of ideas and good communication.

Spiritual fitness includes having a sense of purpose in life. Being "religious" can be a major contributor to spiritual fitness; however, it is simply one of the ingredients in the achievement of spiritual fitness.

Resilient Airmen have a supportive network of family and friends, the ability to take responsibility for one's actions, maintenance of positive and empowering attitudes and the ability to "bounce back" from adversity.

Depression and anxiety are very responsive to treatment efforts. The earlier the intervention the better.

Whether the roots of depression and anxiety lie in genetics, environment, personality or biochemistry, treatment can alleviate the severity of symptoms and lead to an increasingly resilient, satisfactory and contributory life.

If you or someone you care about is experiencing anxiety or depression, contact the Vance Air Force Base Mental Health Clinic, 213-7419, the Behavioral Health Optimization Program, 213-7209, or the Medical Clinic, 213-7209.