If you have depression, or at least you think you have one, you must realize that you should not diagnose yourself. You need to have a healthcare practitioner that is skilled to give you a correct assessment and professional diagnosis of your condition.
There is absolutely no reason to feel shy or embarrassed when talking to a healthcare provider regarding any symptoms of your condition. There are many healthcare professionals that are very understanding of your problem. After all, they were trained to study and treat depression.
If you have symptoms like these, do not hesitate consulting a medical practitioner. Before getting any actual help or treatment for depression, you must need to first have a diagnosis that is correct.
You see, these symptoms are also symptomatic of other problems. For example, weight loss, fatigue and sleeping patterns may not be caused by depression, but by some medical problem. Other symptoms like losing interest in activities that you previously enjoyed or problems with attention or memory may not be related to depression at all but may be indicative of a undiagnosed medical condition.
You need to consult a doctor so that you can make sure that the symptoms you are experiencing are actually a result of your depression and from there, you can start what the best treatment for you individual case. The doctor might ask you to answer questions to fully assess and help determine if you actually have depression and possibly conduct tests to determine that your symptoms are a result of some other health issue.
Depression is a medical condition that is real. Remember that having depression is not something that you want to have. You probably would not think less of someone who has influenza or is suffering from heart disease. In the same manner, you must not be ashamed or feel guilty that you suffer from depression.
Depression will not go away by "toughing it out" or "being strong.” Being weak in your will does not instantly cause you to be depressed. Most cases of depression can't simply go away just by trying to cheer up. You can't simply make it go away by doing exercises, taking vitamins or going on a vacation. Treating your depression requires professional help - you can't do it alone. Like any other serious illnesses, depression needs professional treatment from a healthcare practitioner. When you are suffering from depression, you need to ask for help to make the problem go away.
Your feelings might change when treatment comes along. You should be pleased to know that depression has proved to be one of the most easily treated conditions.
When you are seeking treatment for your depression, what type of healthcare professional should you see?
Although there are some issues raised on what treatment is the best for depression problems (whether it is drugs, therapy, or if it is a mixture of both), there is actually a type of healthcare professional that is highly qualified to help you recover from depression and various mood disorders that use medications or drugs: a psychiatrist.
Psychologists, in fairness, are also highly qualified to cure depression problems, but they are not medical professionals and as such, cannot prescribe medications. You should realize that psychologists specialize in therapy, especially talk therapy. If you do not know if you need drugs or medications, it might prove best to start your treatment of depression under a psychiatrist's care.
If you think you might also have a good chance of eliminating depression through talk therapy, many psychiatrists can also be good in this, although there are some that may refer you to more experienced therapists. More on this in the next chapter.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Sunday, September 17, 2006
What Causes Depression?
What Causes Depression?
Usually in our adolescence, we are exposed to many sudden and inexplicable mood swings as a result of our body undergoing various hormonal changes that prepare us for adulthood.
Aside from increased social pressures, the onset of menstruation, for example, introduces adolescent girls to premenstrual tension (or premenstrual syndrome) and the menstrual cramps, the former being a mixture of physical and psychological symptoms, including temporary weight gain, fluid retention, depression, fits of temper and the like.
Of these, depression is perhaps one of the most commonly identified conditions that both males and females attest to, particularly at the onset of puberty.
Depression is a term we colloquially use to pertain to any particular period of prolonged sadness and lethargy. Colloquial use would even allow us to call depression any 'low' point in between periods of 'high' or happiness. A popular one-liner, which many of us are familiar with, even goes as far as saying that depression is in fact simply anger without enthusiasm.
However, the real essence of depression is the fact that you can't simply 'snap out of it', and that it has the capacity to disrupt your daily activities. It is characterized by prolonged sadness, anxiety, unusual mood shifts accompanied by a degree of irrational thought, pessimism, and is responsible for changes in the way we eat, sleep, or interact with other people that in effect incapacitates us from participating in productive activities.
Depression is deemed a disorder that requires treatment and attention first because it may be a cause for withdrawal from society as it gives a semblance of suffering, pessimism, and low self-esteem. Secondly, depression may cause changes in physical behavior (like eating or sleeping) that may disrupt regular daily activities or may be mortally dangerous for whoever suffers from it. It may also, in effect, harm interactions with other people, particularly those within the atomic community (like family and friends).
Lastly, the accompanying decrease in rational thought causes some people to eventually result to thoughts of harming oneself or even suicide.
Should you find yourself potentially exhibiting that degree of depression, it is best that you seek immediate help from a professional. The reason is because the many forms of depression, each varying in degree of abnormality it lends, are currently treatable. It will also allow you to accurately determine whether you may simply be suffering from a common or minor depression, which is a mild but similarly prolonged form of depression, or a severe or major depression.
What is severe or major depression then? Severe or major depression, which medical experts also call clinical depression, unipolar depression, or major depressive disorder, is a sort of depression that necessitates medical treatment.
This is because severe depression is thought to be a result of a chemical imbalance in the brain. This particular brand of depression is recognized as possibly hereditary by many psychiatrists and specialists.
Doctors detect severe depression by particular behavioral patterns that emerge. The first is that of a constant feeling of sadness or anxiety. This may be accompanied by feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Another is when you feel lethargic, tired, or without energy despite the fact that you did not engage in any physical activity of any form alongside a feeling of restlessness. You may also feel a decreased capacity to concentrate and make decisions.
The more 'telling' signs that accompany the previous symptoms, which may be attributed to seasonal hormonal imbalances, strenuous physical activities, or physical sickness for non-depressive individuals, have a more or less social implication to them.
If you are suffering from severe depression, you may have a feeling of being uninterested in usual activities or hobbies and you may eventually withdraw from them. Changes in your appetite may also emerge, leading to drastic weight loss.
Another change is in sleeping habits, which may imply difficulty in sleeping, waking up too early, or sleeping too much. With these physically notable changes and the previous general symptoms is a prevalent feeling of inadequateness, hopelessness and guilt. Altogether, these may lead to thoughts of suicide or obsession over death and dying.
The fact that depression can happen to anyone including you, should be enough impetus to better understand depression. Understanding that people around you (and there are many of them) suffer from depression will both allow you to better interact with them, or, should you be suffering from it as well, allow you to benefit from support groups or other people who can better help you deal with the disorder and stop you from succumbing to it.
Usually in our adolescence, we are exposed to many sudden and inexplicable mood swings as a result of our body undergoing various hormonal changes that prepare us for adulthood.
Aside from increased social pressures, the onset of menstruation, for example, introduces adolescent girls to premenstrual tension (or premenstrual syndrome) and the menstrual cramps, the former being a mixture of physical and psychological symptoms, including temporary weight gain, fluid retention, depression, fits of temper and the like.
Of these, depression is perhaps one of the most commonly identified conditions that both males and females attest to, particularly at the onset of puberty.
Depression is a term we colloquially use to pertain to any particular period of prolonged sadness and lethargy. Colloquial use would even allow us to call depression any 'low' point in between periods of 'high' or happiness. A popular one-liner, which many of us are familiar with, even goes as far as saying that depression is in fact simply anger without enthusiasm.
However, the real essence of depression is the fact that you can't simply 'snap out of it', and that it has the capacity to disrupt your daily activities. It is characterized by prolonged sadness, anxiety, unusual mood shifts accompanied by a degree of irrational thought, pessimism, and is responsible for changes in the way we eat, sleep, or interact with other people that in effect incapacitates us from participating in productive activities.
Depression is deemed a disorder that requires treatment and attention first because it may be a cause for withdrawal from society as it gives a semblance of suffering, pessimism, and low self-esteem. Secondly, depression may cause changes in physical behavior (like eating or sleeping) that may disrupt regular daily activities or may be mortally dangerous for whoever suffers from it. It may also, in effect, harm interactions with other people, particularly those within the atomic community (like family and friends).
Lastly, the accompanying decrease in rational thought causes some people to eventually result to thoughts of harming oneself or even suicide.
Should you find yourself potentially exhibiting that degree of depression, it is best that you seek immediate help from a professional. The reason is because the many forms of depression, each varying in degree of abnormality it lends, are currently treatable. It will also allow you to accurately determine whether you may simply be suffering from a common or minor depression, which is a mild but similarly prolonged form of depression, or a severe or major depression.
What is severe or major depression then? Severe or major depression, which medical experts also call clinical depression, unipolar depression, or major depressive disorder, is a sort of depression that necessitates medical treatment.
This is because severe depression is thought to be a result of a chemical imbalance in the brain. This particular brand of depression is recognized as possibly hereditary by many psychiatrists and specialists.
Doctors detect severe depression by particular behavioral patterns that emerge. The first is that of a constant feeling of sadness or anxiety. This may be accompanied by feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Another is when you feel lethargic, tired, or without energy despite the fact that you did not engage in any physical activity of any form alongside a feeling of restlessness. You may also feel a decreased capacity to concentrate and make decisions.
The more 'telling' signs that accompany the previous symptoms, which may be attributed to seasonal hormonal imbalances, strenuous physical activities, or physical sickness for non-depressive individuals, have a more or less social implication to them.
If you are suffering from severe depression, you may have a feeling of being uninterested in usual activities or hobbies and you may eventually withdraw from them. Changes in your appetite may also emerge, leading to drastic weight loss.
Another change is in sleeping habits, which may imply difficulty in sleeping, waking up too early, or sleeping too much. With these physically notable changes and the previous general symptoms is a prevalent feeling of inadequateness, hopelessness and guilt. Altogether, these may lead to thoughts of suicide or obsession over death and dying.
The fact that depression can happen to anyone including you, should be enough impetus to better understand depression. Understanding that people around you (and there are many of them) suffer from depression will both allow you to better interact with them, or, should you be suffering from it as well, allow you to benefit from support groups or other people who can better help you deal with the disorder and stop you from succumbing to it.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Natural Cures For Depression
Natural Cures For Depression
If symptoms of depression are many, so is its cure. Depression in any form affects your quality of life. Visiting a medical expert or a psychiatrist becomes the obvious choice when you experience this prolonged period of sadness. You go through some weeklong counseling sessions which no doubt cost you a fortune. And if medication is added to it, then the expenses are much more. Sometimes, medications for depression are over-prescribed. It is here that you look for more natural cures for depression.
It cannot be denied that many depression patients have recovered successfully from prescription medications and never had any such problems. Even talking about their problems through cognitive behavior therapy has improved their mental condition to a far greater extent. However, it cannot be denied that people can also benefit from natural cures of depression. Mild cases of depression are occasionally treated with natural cures. In chronic cases, medical help and medications become unavoidable.
Every year the number of people falling into depression increases. Studies reveal that depression is becoming so common that in the future, it will be one of the main causes of disability, not only in America but worldwide.
The effects of depression can only be mitigated. There is no absolute remedy for depression. Dietary changes or herbal supplements can only mitigate the effects of depression. An effective therapy program suggested by your doctor will help you understand what self-talk is and how it can used to minimize depression naturally. A light, brisk walk around 20 to 25 minutes will help you fight depression, especially when the effect of depression is mild.
Regular exposure to sunlight can affect a person’s helplessness to depression. Avoid consumption of alcohol or caffeine, as they play a significant role in sudden mood swings and make it much more pronounced. In addition to all these natural cure therapies, there is a new tool that can fight effectively against some forms of depression. The tool is Omega 3 fatty acids, which significantly reduce the level of depression, especially among people in the industrialized countries.
Always be in touch with your doctor, who will help you in developing a whole-life approach to your depression. Never stop your medication because it can prove fatal. Any consumption of herbal or nutritional supplements should be taken in consultation with your doctor. Live life. Beat depression.
Natural Cures For Depression
Manic Depression
Manic Depression
Have you encountered a person undergoing extreme mood swings, or sudden behavioral changes? The person is suffering from bipolar disorder or manic depression. These sudden mood swings can last for hours, days, weeks or even months. Bipolar disorder or manic depression results in quite distinct mood fluctuations that, once traced and analyzed, can be anticipated.
You are in depression when you deviate yourself from your normal activities. Your zest for life gets a backseat because of depression. There is a tendency to isolate oneself from the external environment and develop this strange behavior, which highlights your lack of confidence. Always remember that when you are in depression, others are also affected by the rough patches in your life.
Bipolar disorder or manic depression is not restricted to any particular age group. Though bipolar disorders usually start during late adolescence or early adulthood, they can also affect children or elderly people. This form of manic depression is not restricted to a particular sex, i.e. male or female, or to a particular race or class. It must be however notified, that manifestations of bipolar disorder or manic depression is different in men and women.
Once diagnosed, bipolar disorder or manic depression can be treated under proper medication and consultation with medical experts. Usually, bipolar disorder or manic depression is associated with certain general types of mood swings, namely, hypomanic episode, a major depressive episode, and a mixed episode.
Bipolar disorders or manic depression can be either categorized under Bipolar I disorder or Bipolar II disorder. Bipolar I disorder is characterized by elevated moods for at least a week, talkativeness, decreased need of sleep, flight of ideas, and so on. Bipolar II category, on the other hand, is characterized by depressive mood behavior with at least one hypomanic episode. The second disorder seriously hampers the social life of the patient because of erratic mood changes.
Bipolar disorders or manic depression are usually indescribable and are no instant cure for the illness. Such forms of depression can go on for hours, weeks or months if left untreated. It is always advisable to consult the doctor immediately if sudden changes in mood occur. Bipolar disorders or manic depression can always be treated with proper medications and therapy. But never leave it untreated because it worsens a person’s mental and physical condition to a great extent.
Always remember, more than doctors, it is the family and friends of the patient who help him or her in overcoming the problem. Always encourage him or her to seek the help and care of a psychiatrist immediately
Manic Depression
Simple And Easy Tips To Overcome Depression
Simple And Easy Tips To Overcome Depression
Simple And Easy Tips To Overcome Depression
If you know the symptoms of depression, you should also know some strategies for reducing the problem. Depression can be the result of many things, and it is necessary that you avoid those circumstances that upset you or make you feel depressed.
Every day, stories appear in print media and television that are mostly negative, highlighting the economic and social deprivations of humanity. Stories focused on destruction, war, crime, doom and despair will only aggravate the problem of depression rather than solve it. Avoid reading such negative stories and events. Helplessness will only add to your depression, rather than cure it.
Moreover, always see the positive side of life. Say good things about others, share with them your most memorable moments, and set aside all such moments that depress you.
Indulge yourself in lots of physical exercises. A healthy body is the root to a healthy mind, attitude, and thinking. Regular practice of breathing exercises will help you overcome your depression problems. These tips to reduce depression are simple but can work wonders if followed with determination and will.
Do not keep too many goals and expectations that will depress you further. Always keep aside one important goal that you think is necessary to achieve. When you try for many things at one go, you only aggravate the problem of depression.
There are many research materials and information available on depression and also its effective treatment. You can go through a vast array of information and make those important decisions about your health and ways to cope with your health problems. Although you can reduce the problem by applying the useful tips mentioned on online websites and books on depression, it is your psychiatrist who can really help you out in curing the problem.
Depression causes a serious imbalance of brain chemicals and many other internal changes that need serious medication and treatment. It is not something you should be ashamed of. Depression is just like any other illness which just needs full support from the family. Always have a hopeful heart. It is a must to overcome depression.
Make few but good friends who will be always there to support you in good and bad times. Never allow depression to grow in isolation. Make it a point to have your near and dear ones around you. Socialize as much as you can when you feel depressed. That will mitigate your problem to a great extent. Watch good movies, especially comedy, or visit funny and humorous web sites or read funny books. Light things will make you feel good and reduce your depression problem.
Positive thinking always gets your brain going. Involve yourself into lots of singing and dancing activities that will signal that your brain is really happy. Go for lively music that really rejuvenates the mind and soul and overcomes your depression. Try to engage yourself in as many activities as possible. A healthy routine must be followed to keep your body and mind healthy. Physical exercises affect your brain chemicals, and this can really help in reducing you depression problems.
Try to hold as few grudges as you can. This can only aggravate your frustration level and cause depression. The more you learn to forgive and forget, the better for you. Always reserve a quiet time where you can spend quality time with yourself. This certainly does not mean isolation. It is essential because this is the time you give to yourself.
Simple And Easy Tips To Overcome Depression
How To Treat Depression
How To Treat Depression
Depression is very common among Americans, especially given the fast life they live. Though the treatment for depression is quite simple, it requires extra care and a little cheering up to help the patient come out of the problem. The cost of the treatment is no doubt expensive; but given the problem, everyone should take advantage of the various depression treatments that are available today to cure the problem.
There is nothing wrong with consulting a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is the best guide in this field. You should consider yourself lucky that today there are all sorts of depression treatments to help you overcome the problem. You should get the best treatment. Your family will always expect a positive result from the best treatment available.
Among the vast array of treatments available, psychotherapy is one of the most popular depression treatments that allows the patient to slowly uncover hidden feelings and the root of the problem. These short-term therapy sessions involve a healthy discussion between the cognitive behavior therapist and the depression patient. These sessions mainly involve a healthy interaction with the patient to help him overcome the problem by finding positive solutions.
People may suffer from either bipolar disorder (manic depression) or major depressive disorder.
Bipolar disorder mainly involves certain episodes of depression, where a person may experience certain unexpected emotional outbursts that are difficult to control. These episodes may last for hours, days, weeks, or even a month. Treatments for bipolar disorders usually involve the application of both medication and psychotherapy. Psycho-education is beneficial, as it helps the patient and the family members to understand the root cause of the problem.
Major depressive disorder mainly involves sadness, loss of pleasure, excess crying, headaches, and digestive problems. Apart from normal medications, other treatments involve Electroconvulsive therapy, Lithium and Anticonvulsant medication, which are used for prevention of such outbursts. In these cases, consulting a doctor is a must, as he or she can help you come out of the problem.
Today, various depression treatments and medications are actually helping a large number of patients to return to their normal course of activities and get a proper sleep, which most patients lack. The treatment for depression depends on the severity of the problem. In case of mild depression, psychotherapies are suggested. Medication is usually recommended when the depression problem is severe and cannot be handled with psychotherapy alone.
Your medical consultant will get you the right kind of treatment and medication depending on the severity of the problem. A combination of psychotherapy and medication may be suggested if the problem of depression is serious. Specialized help from a psychiatrist is usually recommended when there are no positive results from medication alone.
The best treatment for depression is to engage yourself in lots of physical activities. Overconsumption of alcohol will only aggravate the problem. Do not suffer the problem of depression alone. Talk to your near and dear ones. There is no more effective treatment than this.
How To Treat Depression
Monday, September 11, 2006
Depression Is A Real Illness
Depression Is A Real Illness
Because most people get depressed from time to time, there is that eternal question if depression is a real illness. The answer is: yes. The clinical one, that is. It has been said that about one out of eight United States residents will likely become clinically depressed. Some experience it once in a lifetime, while others have multiple episodes.
This is a fact: if a person gets depressed for the first time, there is a 50 percent chance that he will fall to the same predicament again. And come the second time, there is the threat that he will go into a third depressing episode.
Depression is a real illness as it involves the mental, emotional and even physical faculties of the person. It is not just a transient sad feeling that will go away when one wills it to. There are symptoms and signs as well as corresponding treatment. If not handled properly and immediately, it may escalate to worse conditions. Like any other illness, depression has also variations.
There are three types of depressive disorders: major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and dysthymic disorder.
Major depression is a culmination of all the symptoms and signs that intervene with one's capability to act normally. It can happen once, but recurring episodes are possible.
Its less severe counterpart is dysthymia which is characterized by the same symptoms of major depression, only they do not totally interfere with one's activities. A person who has dysthymic disorder can suffer major depression sometime during his life.
Bipolar disorder is also a type of depression that involves drastic mood changes, from being very high one minute to severely depressed the next. The manic cycle can make the person hyper and overenthusiastic but it changes as soon as the depressed cycle hits. The depressed cycle encompasses all the symptoms of depression.
Because depression is an illness, there are symptoms. Again, they are the following:
1. Persistent "empty" feeling
2. Unbelievable hopelessness
3. Feeling guilty and worthless all the time
4. Lack or loss of interests in activities that used to bring joy to the patient and this includes sex.
5. Prominent fatigue
6. Has a difficult time making decisions
7. Development of sleep problems
8. Loss of appetite and drastic weight change or loss
9. Suicidal attempts and thoughts.
10. Pronounced irritability
11. Physical aches and pains that have no physiological basis
The good news is at the end of this dark tunnel called depression, there is hope. Treatment is available in three types: psychotherapy, antidepressant medicine and the combination of the two. There are also times when electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and light therapy are employed. We will discuss these in depth in upcoming posts. So, stay tuned.
Depression Is A Real Illness
Because most people get depressed from time to time, there is that eternal question if depression is a real illness. The answer is: yes. The clinical one, that is. It has been said that about one out of eight United States residents will likely become clinically depressed. Some experience it once in a lifetime, while others have multiple episodes.
This is a fact: if a person gets depressed for the first time, there is a 50 percent chance that he will fall to the same predicament again. And come the second time, there is the threat that he will go into a third depressing episode.
Depression is a real illness as it involves the mental, emotional and even physical faculties of the person. It is not just a transient sad feeling that will go away when one wills it to. There are symptoms and signs as well as corresponding treatment. If not handled properly and immediately, it may escalate to worse conditions. Like any other illness, depression has also variations.
There are three types of depressive disorders: major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and dysthymic disorder.
Major depression is a culmination of all the symptoms and signs that intervene with one's capability to act normally. It can happen once, but recurring episodes are possible.
Its less severe counterpart is dysthymia which is characterized by the same symptoms of major depression, only they do not totally interfere with one's activities. A person who has dysthymic disorder can suffer major depression sometime during his life.
Bipolar disorder is also a type of depression that involves drastic mood changes, from being very high one minute to severely depressed the next. The manic cycle can make the person hyper and overenthusiastic but it changes as soon as the depressed cycle hits. The depressed cycle encompasses all the symptoms of depression.
Because depression is an illness, there are symptoms. Again, they are the following:
1. Persistent "empty" feeling
2. Unbelievable hopelessness
3. Feeling guilty and worthless all the time
4. Lack or loss of interests in activities that used to bring joy to the patient and this includes sex.
5. Prominent fatigue
6. Has a difficult time making decisions
7. Development of sleep problems
8. Loss of appetite and drastic weight change or loss
9. Suicidal attempts and thoughts.
10. Pronounced irritability
11. Physical aches and pains that have no physiological basis
The good news is at the end of this dark tunnel called depression, there is hope. Treatment is available in three types: psychotherapy, antidepressant medicine and the combination of the two. There are also times when electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and light therapy are employed. We will discuss these in depth in upcoming posts. So, stay tuned.
Depression Is A Real Illness
How Do I Know If I Am Severely Depressed?
Curiously easily diagnosable and treatable medical problem, depression happens to at least 20 million American adults every year. As we discussed earlier, although everyone has experienced sadness and feelings of being depressed, people that are suffering from true depression have many frequent and recurring long-term symptoms, making them view life as something not worth living.
How would you know if you have a depression problem? Here are more depression symptoms. These symptoms vary in each person, although if these happen to you, it might be wise to consult a doctor.
If you are experiencing at least five of the symptoms listed above and have begun interfering with family activities or work for more than a week, ask your doctor for a thorough checkup. This would most likely include having a comprehensive physical exam (although some symptoms might be caused by other health problems that you have) and a detailed clinical history. Just be honest and open on what and how you are feeling.
Do not even think of diagnosing yourself. Likewise, you cannot rely to a friend or a member of your family for diagnosis. Only a doctor that is properly trained to check illnesses is the only one that can fully determine if you are having a depression episode.
If you want, you could try self-evaluation tests available on the Internet that could help you gauge the symptoms that you have, or at least, can prepare you when you visit your doctor. Think of these tests as a way of communicating your symptoms better to a healthcare professional when you go in for a visit. Of course, online tests prove no match to an actual consultation.
For other people, depression is recurrent, which simply means that they experience depression episodes often - once or twice in a month, at least once a year, or many times throughout their lifetimes.
Do not feel embarrassed, shy, or ashamed of your depression problem. People of various ages, ethnic groups, races, and social classes get this problem. Although depression can happen at any given age, depression commonly develops in people whose ages lie between 25 and 44. If you have a depression problem, you're not the only one. Every day, there are more than 20 million American adults that are experiencing depression problems.
Be persistent and patient and you will find the method that suits you best for determining depression.
How would you know if you have a depression problem? Here are more depression symptoms. These symptoms vary in each person, although if these happen to you, it might be wise to consult a doctor.
- Sadness that is prolonged
- Crying spells that are unexplained
- Significant and abrupt changes in sleep patterns and appetite
- Anger, irritability, anxiety, worry, agitation
- Pessimism, indifference
- Energy loss
- Persistent lethargy
- Guilt feelings and unexplained sense of worthlessness
- Difficulty in concentrating and indecisiveness
- Inability in taking pleasure in interests you previously enjoy
- Social withdrawal
- Unexplained pains and aches
- Extreme fatigue when you have not done much
- Recurring and frequent thoughts of suicide or death
If you are experiencing at least five of the symptoms listed above and have begun interfering with family activities or work for more than a week, ask your doctor for a thorough checkup. This would most likely include having a comprehensive physical exam (although some symptoms might be caused by other health problems that you have) and a detailed clinical history. Just be honest and open on what and how you are feeling.
Do not even think of diagnosing yourself. Likewise, you cannot rely to a friend or a member of your family for diagnosis. Only a doctor that is properly trained to check illnesses is the only one that can fully determine if you are having a depression episode.
If you want, you could try self-evaluation tests available on the Internet that could help you gauge the symptoms that you have, or at least, can prepare you when you visit your doctor. Think of these tests as a way of communicating your symptoms better to a healthcare professional when you go in for a visit. Of course, online tests prove no match to an actual consultation.
For other people, depression is recurrent, which simply means that they experience depression episodes often - once or twice in a month, at least once a year, or many times throughout their lifetimes.
Do not feel embarrassed, shy, or ashamed of your depression problem. People of various ages, ethnic groups, races, and social classes get this problem. Although depression can happen at any given age, depression commonly develops in people whose ages lie between 25 and 44. If you have a depression problem, you're not the only one. Every day, there are more than 20 million American adults that are experiencing depression problems.
Be persistent and patient and you will find the method that suits you best for determining depression.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Signs Of Depression
Signs Of Depression
Everyone goes through rough times where we feel sad or down in the dumps. Actually, it’s pretty normal to feel that way on occasion.
Crying can be cathartic and beneficial, allowing us to release all the negative stuff that is causing us to feel bad.
However, when depression seems to be going nonstop and the patient just can’t snap out of it no matter how hard he or she tries, then that probably signifies depression.
Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses in America. It has been reported that about 9.5 million Americans suffer from depression almost every six months. You should remember that depression does not choose a victim as it could practically affect anyone whatever social status or race.
It is important that we know the signs of depression so that we can deal with it and have it alleviated.
If the following signs have been going on for more than two weeks, then you should seek professional help.
1. The person has drastic change of appetite.
If the person suddenly gains weight or plummets to a stick-thin figure, then chances are he might be depressed. This is just one sign that has to correspond with other signs to validate the existence of depression.
2. He suddenly has a sudden change in sleeping patterns.
The person could be a sound sleeper his entire life and then suddenly, experiences insomnia and other sleeping problems. This could be a symptom that depression is lurking.
3. The person suddenly loses interest in things and activities he used to enjoy.
If a person had been passionate about an activity, e.g., basketball, and then suddenly makes a 360 degree turn, that could be a symptom of depression.
4. There is energy loss and presence of fatigue.
You may see an apparent change in attitude. The person does not want to actively participate in activities. Energy is seeped from him and when asked what the matter is, he could only shrug and retreat back to his sadness.
5. The person feels he is unworthy.
This is when depression can be moving into a serious mode. The person begins to feel that he has nothing to live for and unworthy of being loved and appreciated.
6. The person starts losing hope.
Gone is his optimism to live another day. He is already hopeless and no amount of "hope springs eternal" can pull him out of this rut.
7. The person feels guilty without any reason at all.
The person stops himself from being happy because he feels he has no right to be one. He harbors guilt for no apparent reason.
8. He becomes indecisive.
What used to be a firm decision-maker suddenly becomes fickle-minded and too indecisive. Depression occurs when one is too insecure to come up with decisions.
9. He is suicidal.
This is such an alarming sign that medical help must be provided as soon as possible.
10. He experiences melancholia.
Melancholia is that sadness that completely engulfs the person and is characterized by the following: waking up two hours earlier than the usual, languidly moving in the morning and walking slowly.
11. He becomes mentally disturbed.
He suddenly thinks of morbid things, detaches himself from his usual mindset and starts hallucinating.
12. He develops physical aches.
A depressed person gets stomachaches or muscle pains with no physiological basis at all.
13. He obtains that "My life is passing by" feeling.
Other than assimilating the "Life is unfair!" and "what has gone wrong?" drama, a clinically depressed person also feels that he is just simply watching his life deteriorating from afar.
14. The person becomes antisocial.
A depressed person is likely to isolate himself from his family and friends. But there is also a case when a depressed person gets so frightened being alone that he clings to people all the time. However, no amount of social involvement makes him feel better.
Depression, if not seriously taken and treated, would lead to more severe mental illnesses or even death. Everyone has to know the signs and symptoms so the next time he has a hunch that a loved one is currently suffering depression, he could immediately ask a doctor to administer professional assistance.
Signs Of Depression
Everyone goes through rough times where we feel sad or down in the dumps. Actually, it’s pretty normal to feel that way on occasion.
Crying can be cathartic and beneficial, allowing us to release all the negative stuff that is causing us to feel bad.
However, when depression seems to be going nonstop and the patient just can’t snap out of it no matter how hard he or she tries, then that probably signifies depression.
Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses in America. It has been reported that about 9.5 million Americans suffer from depression almost every six months. You should remember that depression does not choose a victim as it could practically affect anyone whatever social status or race.
It is important that we know the signs of depression so that we can deal with it and have it alleviated.
If the following signs have been going on for more than two weeks, then you should seek professional help.
1. The person has drastic change of appetite.
If the person suddenly gains weight or plummets to a stick-thin figure, then chances are he might be depressed. This is just one sign that has to correspond with other signs to validate the existence of depression.
2. He suddenly has a sudden change in sleeping patterns.
The person could be a sound sleeper his entire life and then suddenly, experiences insomnia and other sleeping problems. This could be a symptom that depression is lurking.
3. The person suddenly loses interest in things and activities he used to enjoy.
If a person had been passionate about an activity, e.g., basketball, and then suddenly makes a 360 degree turn, that could be a symptom of depression.
4. There is energy loss and presence of fatigue.
You may see an apparent change in attitude. The person does not want to actively participate in activities. Energy is seeped from him and when asked what the matter is, he could only shrug and retreat back to his sadness.
5. The person feels he is unworthy.
This is when depression can be moving into a serious mode. The person begins to feel that he has nothing to live for and unworthy of being loved and appreciated.
6. The person starts losing hope.
Gone is his optimism to live another day. He is already hopeless and no amount of "hope springs eternal" can pull him out of this rut.
7. The person feels guilty without any reason at all.
The person stops himself from being happy because he feels he has no right to be one. He harbors guilt for no apparent reason.
8. He becomes indecisive.
What used to be a firm decision-maker suddenly becomes fickle-minded and too indecisive. Depression occurs when one is too insecure to come up with decisions.
9. He is suicidal.
This is such an alarming sign that medical help must be provided as soon as possible.
10. He experiences melancholia.
Melancholia is that sadness that completely engulfs the person and is characterized by the following: waking up two hours earlier than the usual, languidly moving in the morning and walking slowly.
11. He becomes mentally disturbed.
He suddenly thinks of morbid things, detaches himself from his usual mindset and starts hallucinating.
12. He develops physical aches.
A depressed person gets stomachaches or muscle pains with no physiological basis at all.
13. He obtains that "My life is passing by" feeling.
Other than assimilating the "Life is unfair!" and "what has gone wrong?" drama, a clinically depressed person also feels that he is just simply watching his life deteriorating from afar.
14. The person becomes antisocial.
A depressed person is likely to isolate himself from his family and friends. But there is also a case when a depressed person gets so frightened being alone that he clings to people all the time. However, no amount of social involvement makes him feel better.
Depression, if not seriously taken and treated, would lead to more severe mental illnesses or even death. Everyone has to know the signs and symptoms so the next time he has a hunch that a loved one is currently suffering depression, he could immediately ask a doctor to administer professional assistance.
Signs Of Depression
What is depression?
What is depression?
Depression is a state of mind which results in a serious, long-term lowering of enjoyment of life or inability to visualize a happy future
On a more serious note, depression is a period of feeling "the blues" which lasts longer than several weeks and may include thoughts of self-inflicted injury or suicide.
Pretty scary, isn’t it?
Just tune in to your evening news and you will see the results of depression. Parents and family members who didn’t have a suspicion that their loved one suffered from depression, therefore they missed the tell-tale early signs of detection.
This appears to be true of our youth. It seems like not a day goes by that we don’t learn of another teen or even pre-teen, commit a violent act that stemmed from a state of severe depression.
How is a parent to know? And if you ARE fortunate to detect the depression, what is your next step? This is extremely important when it comes to our children.
Because some of the symptoms are so illusive, they can be easily overlooked in our busy day to day activities. We may push the thoughts to the back of our minds and decide to have that discussion “tomorrow.” Sadly, sometimes “tomorrow” just does not come.
Anyone can have it!
Depression has no boundaries. Rich, poor, fat, thin, young or old depression does not discriminate!
What we hope to share with you is that we can help. Detecting the early signs of depression in yourself or loved ones should be your paramount concern.
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