Tampa, Fla., July 5, 2007 – Today the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) announced the development of two new depression brochures. Understanding Depression in Kidney Disease is the latest addition to the AAKP Understanding series. It is accompanied by When Your Loved One is Depressed, Tips on How You Can Help.

Nearly 30 million Americans suffer from some form of depression. Many people with depression do not seek help, even though most of those with severe cases can be helped. Kidney disease patients are at an increased risk of suffering from depression. Understanding Depression in Kidney Disease and When Your Loved One is Depressed, gives readers an understanding of what depression is, what may cause it and how it is treated.

"People just don’t understand depression," says AAKP President Bobbi Wager, MSN, RN. "But knowing the signs and symptoms may prompt a patient to seek the help he or she needs."

"This is a terrible disease that affects millions of people," says AAKP Executive Director/CEO Kris Robinson. "Not only does it affect the patient, but their loved ones also. These brochures are part of AAKP’s mission to help kidney patients and their loved ones deal with the emotional impact of kidney disease."

AAKP would like to thank Amgen for sponsoring the brochures. Click here if you would like to download a copy of Understanding Depression in Kidney Disease or click here if you would like to download a copy of When Your Loved One is Depressed. You can also call AAKP at 800-749-AAKP to request a copy.