What is Major Depression?	Major depression is a common and disabling illness affecting more than 17 million Americans each year. While brief periods of feeling “blue” in reaction to a life stress are common, major depression includes having several of the symptoms below, nearly every day for more than two weeks. ü persistent sad mood ü loss of interest or pleasure ü decreased energy or fatigue ü sleep problems ü difficulty concentrating ü difficulty making decisions ü hopelessness or pessimism ü feeling guilty, worthless or helpless ü feeling life is not worth living ü irritability ü excessive crying There are many causes of major depression. Studies of families show that the parent, siblings, and children of a person with major depression that began before the age of 30 are 3 to 5 times more likely to have major depression themselves. It is likely that some depressions are genetic.
What is a Genetic Disorder?	A genetic disorder is an illness that is inherited or runs in families. Genes are hereditary material made of DNA, which are passed from parent to child. Shared genes give family members similar characteristics, such as hair color and eye color. Genes may also increase susceptibility to certain diseases. We are trying to learn if genes are associated with major depression. This discovery would offer new hope for treatment and prevention.
Genetic Sibling Study	One strategy for locating major depression genes involves comparing the genetic material of siblings (brothers or sisters) with major depressive disorder. The similarities we discover may provide clues to the gene’s location. The Genetic Sibling Study of Depression at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University is funded through a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health. The study, under the direction of Myrna M. Weissman, Ph.D., includes clinicians, molecular biologists, statisticians and epidemiologists.
Are you Eligible?	We are looking for families where 2 or more siblings have had major depression. Eligibility criteria include: ü age 21 or older ü major depression before age 31 ü a sibling or parent who has had major depression before age 41 You do not need to live nearby. Interviews can be completed by phone. You will be compensated up to $75 for your participation.
Contact:	If you think you may be eligible and would be interested in talking with a member of our professional staff confidentially about this study call or email: (212) 543-5572 or (212) 543-5020 sibhealth@childpsych.columbia.edu Sadia R. Chaudhury, M.S., Study Coordinator Approved under NYSPI-CUMC IRB protocol #5094
Clinical and Genetic Epidemiology 1051 Riverside Drive Unit 24 New York, NY 10032	We need to remind Internet users that we cannot guarantee the confidentiality of inquiries submitted via email. Caution should be exercised when sending information in this format.