Twin Falls, Idaho (KMVT-TV) It's the time of year when some of us start battling depression. But the good news is depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions.

If you're fatigued, if you have trouble sleeping, or you feel helpless and discouraged, you could be depressed. 85 percent of us will wrestle with depression sometime in our lives.

Dr. Eric F. Jones, PhD, says, "It's really difficult to concentrate, and come up with good reasonable rational decisions, which oftentimes can create a snowball effect in their lives if they aren't acting on things that need to be taken care of."

Those who need ongoing help and support find it at places like the Community Support Center in downtown Twin Falls. One of the members says less than ten percent of all mental illness patients need care 24 hours a day.

Orion Odendhal, Secretary of CSC Advocates, says "People with mental illnesses have an added challenge of having an upset in their brain chemistry that just amplifies stressful emotions."

Odendhal says one on one counseling and the social interaction at outpatient centers like this one are really the best treatment for most mental illnesses. He says good mental health provides a foundation for good health overall.

Jones says, "Their recognition that they have something to offer and contribute in the community allows them to get back in and participate with family and friends and other activities in the way they want to."

Jones says if you think you might be depressed, check with your family doctor who can give you a test that will let you know if you are or not.

Oct. 16, 2012.