Depression

Guide Note

Depression is a serious mental illness that is more than just having a bad day. It is a medical illness that affects the mind and body.

In some cases, depression appears to be inherited. It is also sometimes caused by the hormonal fluctuations after childbirth; this is called post partum depression. In some cases, it is a side effect of medications, and can also be a side effect of illicit drug use or alcoholism. Situations and environment can also cause depression - for example, high stress or traumatic experiences. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is triggered by the low sunlight levels of the winter months. Another underlying cause seems to be certain differences in the brain. When the brains of people with depression are scanned, they display striking differences compared to the brains of those who are not depressed. Not all the causes have been determined, and each cause may have different treatment.

1. Feeling sad
2. Feeling hopeless
3. Crying jags
4. Loss of appetite
5. Insomnia, or sleeping far more than usual
6. Weight change
7. Disinterest in sex
8. Difficulty making decisions
9. Irritability
10. Suicidal thoughts

Depression can be treated with talk therapy, medications, or a combination of the two. While a general practitioner can provide antidepressants, it is best to work with a specialist in order to determine the best course of treatment. Specific types of depression may also require specifically targeted treatment. For example, people with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) may be helped by controlled exposure to artificially generated broad-spectrum light.

Fast Facts

1. Affects 20 million people in U.S.
2. Symptoms: persistent sadness, sleep disturbances, weight fluctuation, trouble concentrating, fatigue, loss of sex drive, easily annoyed, thoughts of suicide
3. A type of mood disorder
4. May be treated with antidepressants
5. Sometimes psychotherapy or counseling is needed
6. Most get better with treatment
7. Usually no hospital stay
8. Some medications can cause depression
9. Without treatment can last for years
10. Exercise benefits depression
11. Someone with depression needs constant support
12. Don't avoid social contact
13. Increases the risk of getting asthma, coronary artery disease or HIV
14. Many different forms
15. Most common types: major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder, psychotic depression, postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder

Disclaimer

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you suffer from Depression, please consult your doctor.