Analytics

Depression

DepressionWhat Is Depression?

Depression is a common and highly treatable illness characterized by intense feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, anger or apathy. The world’s leading cause of disability, depression is more than a temporary bout of sadness. It’s a persistent and unrelenting pattern of hopelessness and despair that interferes with your ability to function on a daily basis.

There are many types of depression, including:

Major Depression – Persistent or recurring inability to feel pleasure or enjoy life that lasts about six months

Minor Depression – Depressive symptoms that do not meet the criteria for major depression and last for two weeks or more

Atypical Depression – A subtype of major depression characterized by typical signs of depression followed by a short-lived improvement in mood in response to good news or happy events

Dysthymia – A form of mild depression that lasts at least two years and includes moderate depressive symptoms and short periods of normal mood

Seasonal Affective Disorder – Depression that comes and go with the fall and winter seasons or frequent overcast days

Bipolar Disorder – Also known as manic depression, bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating episodes of major depression and mania (periods of hyperactivity, rapid speech, sleeplessness and impulsivity)

What Causes Depression?

As with many mental illnesses, scientists haven’t identified the precise causes of depression. It is likely that a number of factors play a role, including:

  • Genetics
  • Stressful life events such as loss of a loved one, a significant break-up or financial problems
  • Physical or chemical imbalances in the brain
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Childhood trauma such as abuse, neglect or loss of a parent

Anyone can develop depression, but you’re at greater risk if you:

  • Are in your teens or late 20s
  • Are a woman
  • Are unemployed
  • Have a family history of depression or suicide
  • Lack a social support network made up of family and friends
  • Recently gave birth
  • Have a serious medical illness such as heart disease or cancer
  • Have another mental health disorder such as anxiety
  • Struggle with low self-esteem
  • Have relationship or marriage problems
  • Have financial struggles
  • Abuse drugs or alcohol

Are You Depressed?

Is it a struggle to get through each day? Do you feel like life isn’t worth living? If so, you may be one of the 19 million Americans struggling with depression.

Everyone experiences depression in their own way. Sadness is not the only way depression manifests. It also appears as numbness, lifelessness, anger or restlessness. Some of the most common symptoms of depression include:

  • Insomnia or excessive sleeping
  • Difficulty concentrating, making decisions or completing basic tasks
  • Feeling hopeless, empty or worthless
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Inability to control negative thoughts
  • Irritability, aggression, restlessness or anger
  • Loss of energy or tiredness
  • Reckless behavior such as substance abuse, compulsive gambling or unsafe sex
  • Inability to feel pleasure
  • Unexplained aches and pains
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, such as hobbies, sex or social gatherings
  • Thoughts of suicide/death or feeling that life isn’t worth living

If you’re struggling with a number of these symptoms and they prevent you from working, fulfilling responsibilities at home or enjoying your life, it’s time to seek help.

Treatment for Depression

Whether your symptoms are mild, moderate or severe, or you’ve suffered for a few weeks or as long as you can remember, depression can be treated. A state of hopelessness and despair is no way to live. More than 80 percent of people struggling with depression feel better with one or more of the following depression treatments:

Medication – Some of the most commonly used antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac, Paxil or Zoloft; serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as Cymbalta; monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs); and others. These medications are generally prescribed by a primary care physician or psychiatrist. Although medication may improve symptoms, it does not address the issues underlying depression, so most experts recommend that medication be used as part of a combined approach to treatment.

Psychotherapy – Talking about symptoms and exploring underlying issues with a counselor helps people identify unhealthy thought and behavior patterns and learn better ways to cope. Psychotherapy is useful both individually and in groups. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychodynamic therapy have proven to be some of the most effective forms of treatment for depression. The skills developed in therapy can improve symptoms quickly and can be called upon if depressive symptoms return.

Residential Treatment Programs – For severe depression, inpatient treatment or hospitalization may be necessary. Residential depression treatment programs provide intensive therapy, 24-hour supervision, and a high level of structure and support. There are also day treatment and outpatient programs available that provide support and counseling.

For those seeking out complementary approaches, there are also a number of alternative treatments for depression, such as acupuncture, yoga, massage therapy, meditation, herbal supplements, and adjustments in diet, exercise and lifestyle.

Overcoming the Stigma of Depression

Studies show that millions of Americans struggling with depression avoid speaking with their doctor or seeking treatment. Depression is not a sign of weakness or failure, nor is it something that will just disappear on its own. It is a serious, chronic illness that requires treatment. Get help today – the best days of your life are ahead.