Bioscience Research offers mental health care at no cost

Sep 22 2009

Psychiatrists at Bioscience Research, LLC, understand the mental health burden that can accompany unemployment and the day-to-day stress of looking for a new job or worrying about losing an existing job. In response to the area’s increased need for “best in class” mental health care at no cost, the Mount Kisco research center is now screening eligible Westchester County residents for clinical research studies on depression and treatment resistant depression. Those interested in more information can call 914-385-0200 or visit www.bioscienceresearchllc.com.

A new national Work Trends survey of 1,200 jobless Americans found that the recession has left many Americans struggling to cope with the psychological stress caused by becoming unemployed in a weak economy. According to the Rutgers University findings, two-thirds of the respondents reported that they had become depressed and three-quarters said they are feeling stressed. Many others noted that they avoid social situations, experience trouble sleeping, have strained family relationships, and increased substance dependency.

“We understand the mental health strain that people in our community may be feeling these days and are committed to promptly seeing a patient after receiving a call for an appointment,” said Dr. David Krakow, a double board-certified psychiatrist, co-founder of Bioscience Research and Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University. “Because of our dual focus on clinical research and private practice care, we are keenly aware of newly approved medications, drugs in development, and treatment trends on the horizon,” continued Dr. Krakow. This is a real advantage that we can share with our patients whether they participate in a depression research study or see us in a private practice setting.”

Major depressive disorder, also known as clinical depression or major depression, is a very common mental health condition that affects more than 20 million people in any given year. Of this total, only 20 percent of people with the mood disorder will actually receive treatment.

“These are really alarming statistics when you consider the number of people with major depressive disorder who are not receiving appropriate care,” said Dr. Jeanette E. Cueva, board certified general, child and adolescent psychiatrist, co-founder of Bioscience Research, and Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University. “Whether they have trouble accessing mental health services or are reluctant to identify professional support, we know that there are many adults out there who would benefit from expert psychiatric evaluation, close medical monitoring, and medication for their depression.”

People with depression experience a combination of symptoms. Men are more likely to acknowledge having fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances, and loss of interest in once-pleasurable activities, whereas women are more likely to admit to feelings of sadness, worthlessness and/or excessive guilt. Overall, 97 percent of those suffering from depression say their work, home life, and relationships are negatively affected.

“Less than 10 years ago the medical community treated major depressive disorder with the goal of improved symptoms, now we aim for recovery and remission with reduced medication side effects,” said Dr. Krakow. “The care for major depression and treatment resistant depression has come a long way for those who seek help.”

Bioscience Research is conducting ongoing clinical research studies for major depressive disorder and treatment resistant depression in adults. Eligible participants receive research related care at no cost. Study participants will be reimbursed for their time and travel expenses. For more information about major depressive disorder and to see if you may qualify for one of these research studies, please call Bioscience Research at 914-385-0200.