New patient guide for mood and anxiety disorders available to the public

A new book developed by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) and published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) provides readers with evidence-based knowledge and tools to understand mood disorders and make informed decisions for lasting mental health and well-being.

The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that more than 21% of American adults will experience a mood disorder at some point in their lives, and 31% will experience an anxiety disorder. Despite the prevalence of mental illness in American society, many patients and families do not have access to evidence-based information about mental health.

Charles B. Nemeroff, MD, Ph.D., and W. Edward Craighead, Ph.D., ABPP, in collaboration with the ADAA and APA, have published the ADAA Patient Guide to Mood and Anxiety Disorders to empower patients and their support networks.

“One in five Americans will experience a mood disorder at some point in their lives, and anxiety disorders are even more common,” said APA CEO and Chief Medical Officer Marketa M. Wills, MD, MBA. “Sharing the science behind anxiety and mood disorders can help more people understand that these are medical conditions and that they can be treated. We were pleased to partner with the ADAA to publish this important resource for patients and their families.”

“We are pleased that ADAA experts in anxiety, depression, and related conditions have written an evidence-based, easy-to-read, and comprehensive guide for the public that provides the knowledge and tools to help people struggling with these conditions and their support network make informed decisions about treatment options. So many people in the U.S. and abroad suffer from a mood disorder, yet so few have the tools they need to find the help they need. This guide provides those critical tools,” said Susan K. Gurley, ADAA Executive Director.

Throughout the guide, case studies illustrate key scientific information. The book is divided into six sections and includes:

• Extensive descriptions of the various mental disorders.
• A summary of evidence-based treatments, including pharmacological, neuromodulation (gentle electrical stimulation of the nerves that helps prevent pain signals from reaching the brain), and psychological.
• Detailed analysis of FDA-approved drugs for psychiatric disorders.
• An exploration of emerging treatment modalities such as psychedelics, virtual reality therapy, and special population care.

The ADAA Patient Guide to Mood and Anxiety Disorders is available for purchase through APA Publishing.