If I Have Experienced Depression, Am I More Likely To Get In Trouble With The Law?

Dr. Coffey answers the question: 'Depression And Trouble With The Law?'

By
C. Edward Coffey, M.D., Chairman, Department of Psychiatry, Henry Ford Hospital
March 5, 2008, 3:52 PM ET
1 min read

— -- Question: If I have experienced depression, am I more likely to get in trouble with the law?

Answer: Depression can cause erratic behavior which may lead to legal difficulties. A common example is a patient with depression who may be drinking alcohol or using other substances as an effort to self-medicate. However, as long as that individual remains in treatment, he or she can expect to lead a full and productive life.

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