Depression is described as a mood disorder that can affect anyone, but veterans are at a higher risk of suffering from depression. A recent study done by JAMA Psychiatry states that veterans suffer from depression is “five times higher than civilians”,7 and 21 percent of military solder’s experience some form of mood disorders after deployment.6 Symptoms of depression are irritability, difficulty concentration, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, social isolation and suicidal thoughts.6 The treatment for depression is counseling and there is a plethora of anti-depression or mood stabilizers medications to choose from. But the real challenge for medical professionals have, with diagnosing veterans for depression, is that active duty or retired
