Everyone experiences sadness on occasion. Life is full of ups and downs, set-backs and disappointments which can lead to sadness from time to time. However, depression is much more than feeling sad. It lasts longer, interferes with daily life and can cause physical pain. An individual with depression may experience sadness or despair that lasts for weeks or longer and may often feel helpless or hopeless. Depression can interfere with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), cause aches and pains and may also lead to feelings of anger. Individuals who are depressed may suffer from exhaustion, experience feelings of being overwhelmed or even have thoughts of death or suicide.
Depression is usually the result of a combination of genetic, chemical, biological, psychological, social or environmental factors. It is often a sign that aspects of an individual's life are out of balance. Factors that may bring about depression are life stressors such as death of a loved one, loss of job, or chronic illness. Although depression varies from person to person, there are some common signs and symptoms:
Many treatments are available for depression however the most common often include a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy teaches the client how to manage their feelings, overcome negative attitudes and return to normal activities. Medication or antidepressants are used to treat the symptoms that are the result of abnormalities in the brain such as mood, thinking and behavior. It's important to note that Antidepressants may take several weeks to begin working so it is important to stay on planned regiment.
Depression is usually the result of a combination of genetic, chemical, biological, psychological, social or environmental factors. It is often a sign that aspects of an individual's life are out of balance. Factors that may bring about depression are life stressors such as death of a loved one, loss of job, or chronic illness. Although depression varies from person to person, there are some common signs and symptoms:
- Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness; Feeling that nothing will ever get better
- Loss of interest in daily activities; No interest in hobbies or social activities. No joy or pleasure.
- Appetite or weight changes; Significant weight loss or gain
- Sleep changes; Insomnia or hypersomnia (oversleeping)
- Anger or irritability; Feeling agitated, restless or violent.
- Having a low tolerance and short temper
- Loss of energy; Feeling fatigued, sluggish, and drained. Even the smallest of tasks may be difficult to complete.
- Self-loathing; Strong feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Reckless behavior: Substance abuse, compulsive gambling or reckless driving
- Concentration problems; Trouble focusing, making decisions or remembering things
- Unexplained aches and pains; An increase in headaches, back pain or muscle aches
Many treatments are available for depression however the most common often include a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy teaches the client how to manage their feelings, overcome negative attitudes and return to normal activities. Medication or antidepressants are used to treat the symptoms that are the result of abnormalities in the brain such as mood, thinking and behavior. It's important to note that Antidepressants may take several weeks to begin working so it is important to stay on planned regiment.
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