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Depression
How do I know if I'm depressed?
Depression should not be confused with the passing feelings of unhappiness
and dissatisfaction that everyone experiences from time to time. However,
if these feelings continue for more than a few weeks, depression may be
the cause. If you have been feeling "down in the dumps" for weeks, months,
or even years, and you have five or more of the symptoms of depression,
you may be depressed.
What are the symptoms of depression
Symptoms of depression include a change in sleep pattern (sleeping more,
sleeping less, or not being able to sleep), a change in eating leading
either to unintended weight loss or weight gain, fatigue, frequent tearfulness
or sadness, difficulty concentrating, inability to enjoy normal activities,
or feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt. Some people develop
physical aches and pains as the result of depression. Having thoughts
of death or suicide is a definite sign of depression, and you should contact
a mental health professional immediately.
What are the different types of depression
Depressive disorders come in different forms, just as other illnesses
do. Major depression involves a combination of symptoms that interfere
with the ability to work, sleep, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities.
A less severe form of depression is dysthymia, which involves long-term,
chronic symptoms that do not disable but which keep you from feeling really
happy. Another type of depressive disorder is manic-depressive illness,
also known as bipolar disorder. Although not as prevalent as the other
two, manic-depressive illness involves cycles of depression and elation
or mania. Sometimes the mood switches are dramatic and rapid, but most
often they are gradual. When a person is in the manic phase, he or she
may act impulsively, make poor judgments, and act in ways that cause serious
problems and embarrassment. For further information on depression and
manic/depression, visit www.dbsalliance.org,
www.nimh.nih.gov, www.med.jhu.edu/drada,
and www.depression.org.
How is depression treated?
The good news is that depressive illnesses are highly responsive to treatment.
In fact, 80% of those with depression report feeling better within a few
weeks of starting treatment. Both psychotherapy and medication may be
needed to treat depression, though some people prefer not to use medication.
Several forms of psychotherapy have been proven effective in treating
depression. Interpersonal psychotherapy
or IPT focuses on personal relationships. Cognitive-behavior
therapy or CBT focuses on behaviors, helping to change negative thinking
and behavior and unlearn patterns that contribute to depression. Treatment
success depends on the type of depression, its severity, how long it has
been going on, and how the patient responds to treatment. Left untreated,
depression can become chronic and even worse.
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