Depression: What Is It?
It's natural to feel down sometimes, but if that low mood lingers day
after day, it could signal depression. Major depression is an episode of
sadness or apathy along with other symptoms that lasts at least two consecutive
weeks and is severe enough to interrupt daily activities. Depression is not a
sign of weakness or a negative personality. It is a major public health problem
and a treatable medical condition.
Depression Symptoms:
1. Emotional :The primary symptoms of depression are a sad mood and/or loss of interest in life. Activities that were once pleasurable lose their appeal. Patients may also be haunted by a sense of guilt or worthlessness, lack of hope, and recurring thoughts of death or suicide.
2. Physical : Depression is sometimes linked to physical symptoms. These include:
Fatigue and decreased energy
Insomnia, especially early-morning
waking
Excessive sleep
Persistent aches or pains, headaches,
cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
Changes in appetite or weight- another hallmark of depression. Some
patients develop increased appetite and some may lose it altogether.
Weight loss or weight gain
Depression can make other health problems feel worse, particularly
chronic pain. Key brain chemicals influence both mood and pain. Treating
depression has been shown to improve co-existing illnesses.
Impact on Daily Life
Without treatment, the physical
and emotional turmoil brought on by depression can derail careers, hobbies, and
relationships. Depressed people often find it difficult to concentrate and make
decisions. They turn away from previously enjoyable activities, including sex.
In severe cases, depression can become life-threatening.
People who are depressed are
more likely to attempt suicide. Warning signs include talking about death or
suicide, threatening to hurt people, or engaging in aggressive or risky
behavior.
Who’s is at risk of getting depression
Anyone can become depressed,
but many experts believe genetics play a role. Having a parent or sibling with
depression increases your risk of developing the disorder. Women are twice as
likely as men to become depressed.
Causes of Depression
Doctors aren't sure what causes
depression, but a prominent theory is altered brain structure and chemical
function. Brain circuits that regulate mood may work less efficiently during
depression. Drugs that treat depression are believed to improve communication
between nerve cells, making them run more normally. Experts also think that
while stress -- such as losing a loved one -- can trigger depression, one must
first be biologically prone to develop the disorder. Other triggers could
include certain medications, alcohol or substance abuse, hormonal changes, or
even the season or postpartum depression.
Diagnosing Depression
As of yet, there is no lab test for depression. To make an accurate
diagnosis, doctors rely on a patient's description of the symptoms. You'll be
asked about your medical history and medication use since these may contribute
to symptoms of depression. Discussing moods, behaviors, and daily activities
can help reveal the severity and type of depression. This is a critical step in
determining the most effective treatment.
Counselling or Talk Therapy for Depression
Studies suggest different types of talk therapy can fight mild to
moderate depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy aims to change
thoughts and behaviors that contribute to depression. Interpersonal therapy identifies how your relationships
impact your mood. Psychodynamic psychotherapy helps people
understand how their behavior and mood are affected by unresolved issues and
unconscious feelings. Some patients find a few months of therapy are all they
need, while others continue long term.
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