The Truth About Depression
You've probably seen the commercials on television talking about
the "you" you used to be before depression set in. Such
commercials are generally aired by drug companies promoting an
anti-depressant. But what these commercials fail to tell you is
depression is common, and not everyone who feels down or blue is
suffering from depression. You need to know the facts about
depression before you and your doctor determine you are indeed
suffering from this illness.
That's right. Depression is a real mental illness that often
requires anti-depressants or therapy to relieve symptoms. You
can't fix depression by yourself, and without treatment, you'll
likely face an uphill battle you probably aren't going to win.
More than 18 million people a year--or nine and a half percent
of adults in America--are diagnosed with some sort of depressive
illness such as depression.
The first thing you need to know are some of the symptoms that
are common with depression. Symptoms include: feeling
persistently sad or anxious, being overcome by hopelessness or
pessimism, loss of interest in things you normally enjoy, having
a lack of energy, feeling excessively tired, having difficulty
making decisions or concentrating, insomnia, sleeping too much,
excessive weight gain, excessive weight loss, irritability,
restlessness and thoughts of suicide. If you've experienced any,
most or all of these symptoms for a period of two weeks or more,
you're likely to be suffering from clinical depression.
What causes depression? In some instances, depression is genetic
and is passed from generation to generation while others who
suffer from depression will find there is no history of
depression in their families. If you tend to have low-self
esteem or you generally are pessimistic, you may be prone to
depression. Many changes--such as death in the family, illness,
financial difficulties and other stressors--can also be the root
cause of depression.
Whatever the reason, it's important to see a doctor to discuss
treatment options. Once your doctor diagnoses depression and
eliminates any other possible causes, you and he will determine
the best treatment option for you. Antidepressants are often the
most chosen form of therapy, and it's important to know--no
matter what antidepressant you go on, you must be sure you never
just stop taking them. Simply stopping medication can have
severe consequences. If you take an anti-depressant, you may
experience any of a series of side effects including dry mouth,
constipation, bladder problems, dizziness, sexual problems,
headache, nausea, nervousness and insomnia. If the side effects
are too severe, seek your doctor's advice.
The good news is, if you're suffering from depression, you're
not alone. You can get help. There are people who understand and
who can help you and your family learn to make things better.
The key is to seek help, and before you know it you'll be on the
path to happier times.