“I didn’t realize I was depressed, but in 2006, after the break-up of a long-term relationship, I found myself unable to concentrate or keep focus. I started having sleeping problems and I cried a lot. I thought my constant sadness was a normal feeling after the end of a relationship, but a doctor’s appointment helped me realize I was suffering from depression. My primary doctor suggested that I participate in the DIAMOND—a groundbreaking program that improves the health of people with depression by changing the way care is given.

I was in the DIAMOND program, which was covered by my insurance, for one year. Along with phone calls from her, I visited monthly with Mary Licktor?my care manager. I went through a series of different antidepressant medications until my doctor and I found the right one. I am now in remission from my depression and have never been happier. It turned out to be one of the best things I’ve ever done. In my mother’s generation, depression was one of those things you never talked about, but I found help when I opened up and talked to my primary doctor. Now, my life is fantastic.”

Lisa, patient, HealthPartners North Suburban Family Physicians, Roseville, MN