It is perfectly normal to feel sad or upset, or to be unhappy with situations in your life. But when these feelings linger for weeks, months and even years, depression needs to be considered.
Depression is a considered to be one of the most common health conditions in the world. It is a medical illness that involves both the mind and body. Depression can be caused by a variety of genetic, biochemical and environmental factors. Some individuals can experience just one episode of depression while other may experience repeated episodes of depression. Depression does not discriminate and no one is immune from the risk of getting depression.
The essential feature of depression is experiencing a depressed mood, or the loss of interest or pleasure, in nearly all activities. Other symptoms may include changes in appetite or weight: decreased sleep or too much sleep: fatigue or loss of energy; feelings of worthlessness or guilt; difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions; or recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal ideation, plans, or attempts.
For children or adolescents depression is experienced by moods that are irritable rather than sad, increased aggression, withdrawal, isolative behaviors and complaints of chronic headaches.
These symptoms may vary from person to person. They can interfere with a persons relationships, work, daily activities, and even a persons ability to eat, bathe, and care for themselves. While depression can affect anyone, its effect may vary depending on a person’s age and gender.
If uncared for, depression can take a terrible toll on an individual’s life and on their families. Depression usually doesn’t get better on its own, and may get worse if left untreated. Depression can place an individual at risk for suicide, substance abuse, anxiety heart diseases, other medical conditions, work/school problems, family conflicts and social isolation.
Effective diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the symptoms of depression. There a variety of methods available for the treatment of depression. Treatment can consistent of medications, psychotherapy, cognitive-behavior therapy and alternative type therapies such as acupuncture or Tai Chi. If you think you may have symptoms depression, seek professional care. If you have a loved one who you think may have these symptoms of depression encourage them to seek professional care and support. Depression is treatable and can be helped to improve the quality of a person’s life.
Submitted by Corrine Casarez-Turner, LPCC, Mental Health Resources
