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Depression

5 Risks of Not Treating Major Depressive Disorder

Even if your depression seems mild, treatment can improve your quality of life.

Lauren Smith, MAKaren Hovav, MD, FAAP
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP
Updated on July 2, 2025
Featuring Jacques Ambrose, MD, MPH, FAPAReviewed by Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP | July 2, 2025

It’s a myth that you can relieve depression through mere willpower. Not only can treatment for depression help you feel better, but it can also help prevent risks and complications linked to untreated depression. 

In this video, learn the potential risks of not getting help for your depression, according to Jacques Ambrose, MD, MPH, FAPA, Psychiatrist at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

References

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Lauren Smith, MA
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MA
Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP, has more than 15 years of experience as an attending pediatrician. She has worked in a large academic center in an urban city, a small community hospital, a private practice, and an urgent care clinic.

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