Folsom psychiatrist speaks out on National Depression Awareness Month
October is National Depression Awareness Month, a time to address the widespread impact of depression and explore new approaches to treatment.
Mental health experts say it is time to change the conversation about a struggle that affects one in every five Americans.
Data shows suicide remains a leading cause of death in the United States, happening on average every 11 minutes.
Dr. Lauren Marasa, a double board-certified psychiatrist from NorCal Neurostimulation in Folsom, shared insights into the latest treatment options beyond traditional medication.
“We don’t have to wait until someone is really struggling to have these conversations,” she said.
Marasa recommended checking in on how people are doing.
She also said there is a misconception that if medication or psychotherapy hasn’t worked, then nothing will.
“And that’s simply not true. We have so many other treatments out there now,” she said.
Marasa said she is hosting a free forum with mental wellness resources on Wednesday, Oct. 7.
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