“Dr. Rice, I’m willing to try this drug. I want to get better. My husband and I continue to pray for an answer to my depression. I just have to believe there is an answer. Sometimes we lose all hope as I go through so many new bouts of depression. Sometimes I feel that God has abandoned me totally. But my husband continues to seek a cure.”

Researchers in neurosciences are making some interesting discoveries about the brain and addiction. For instance there is a tiny area in the base of the brain called the nucleus accumbens. This cluster of cells helps with motivation and pleasure. It can be called the pleasure center, and for this reason it is very active in addictions of all types. It even has an important role in love, attachment, and depression. There are efforts to find medica- tions to decrease the activity of this nucleus in addictions.

It’s no wonder that, with all the stigma attached to seeing a mental health professional, many people delay or never get needed help. For instance, people with major depression or anxiety disorders often focus on physical symptoms as a “ticket” to health care. The mental illness can slip through the cracks; they see their primary care doctor or advanced practice professional for pain or tiredness. This avoidance of mental issues can lead to more difficult problems, not only for the person, but also for his family and friends. The reason people avoid seeking help may be due to the societal stigma. I will address this stigma in detail.