WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DEPRESSION
What does depression mean to you? Depression is a very serious
mood disorder that can affect anyone regardless of age, gender,
race, social status or ethnicity. Depression is an illness that
affects your body, mind, disposition, sleep and your thoughts.
This condition can be caused by many factors. There can also be
a genetic component to depression.
Have you been told that you have diagnosis of depression? Do
some of the feelings and experiences listed here get in the way
of living your life the way you want to? For example, do you
feel like your life is hopeless and you are worthless? Do you
feel anxious or feel like something bad is going to happen? Do
you feel out of touch with the world? Have you lost interest in
pleasurable activities? Do you feel that others are against you?
Are you experiencing a lot of stress, intense sadness, loss of
energy and burn-out? Are you having trouble concentrating and
have low energy?
When you are depressed it is very hard to think clearly or make
decisions. It may be hard to think of anything to do to help
yourself feel better. If you are feeling blue most of the time
you may have a type of depression. There are three main types of
depression: major depressive disorder, manic-depressive disorder
and dysthymic disorder.
Major depression is also referred to as unipolar depression and
can interfere with a person's ability to function. A person may
have marked difficulty in functioning as this type of depression
can disrupt social or occupational functioning.
A second type is manic-depressive disorder and is also known as
bi-polar disorder. This type involves episodes of major
depression that alternates with episodes of mania. This type can
be extremely disruptive and concerning. Everyone has good days
and bad days and ups and downs. Therefore, this type must be
sufficiently severe that it causes marked impairment in
occupational functioning or marked impairment in relationships
with others. With this type of depression a person may display
different symptoms during different periods of the illness.
The third type is a milder form of depression called dysthymic
disorder. This type is diagnosed when a depressed mood is
present almost every day for at least two years. This type is
referred to as a low-grade depression and can start in the early
teen age years and later in life. Dysthymia may be accompanied
by social aloofness, lack of assertiveness and even periods of
more severe depression. Psychotherapy and anti-depressant
medication can be effective.
If depression is not treated it can get worse. The first step to
obtaining treatment for depression is to obtain a medical
examination by a physician as there are certain medical
conditions that have symptoms similar to depression. A person
may not be aware that they are depressed and do not understand
why they are experiencing various physical symptoms. A skillful
doctor can diagnose the true situation. Psychiatrists are
trained to differentiate depression from other medical
conditions. At your initial visit a history of your present
difficulties will be taken. Other symptoms, family history, past
medical problems are other basic steps that may be taken so an
accurate diagnosis can be made. If medication is prescribed it
is important to learn what you can about the medication and any
possible side effects. If you are experiencing side effects it
is critical to consult with your physician. It is important to
give medication a chance to work and the side effects may be
temporary. Do not stop taking an anti-depressant without
consulting your doctor. It is important to safely discontinue
the medication. Some medications must be stopped gradually.
Finding the right treatment is important. The choice of
treatment varies with the kind and severity of the depression.
If treatment is needed it is important to find out about the
therapist's qualifications. Having a trained therapist listen
carefully can be very helpful in relieving depression. A
therapist can help you gain insight into and resolve your
problems.
The benefits of treatment include partial or complete remission
of the symptoms of depression and reduction of pain and
suffering. Treatment can enhance your general well-being. Other
helpful strategies include learning all you can about
depression. Educate yourself! It is important to express your
feelings and accept them.
It is important to obtain an appropriate diagnosis and treatment
if needed. Depression is not a character flaw or a sign of
personal weakness. Depression is a treatable illness and be
assured that with time and good care you will feel better.
Involve your family members and friends. If there are community
resources take advantage of them. There may be support groups in
your area. Do not go through this alone. The best time to
address depression is now as the sooner you receive treatment -
the sooner you will feel better. Your life is waiting!