 |
 |
Depression - Test Your Knowledge |
|
Depression Health
Depression is a mood disorder that effects the "whole body", and is
characterized by a range of symptoms that may include feeling depressed most of
the time, loss of pleasure, feelings of worthlessness, and suicidal thoughts,
as well as physical states that may affect eating, sleeping and other
activities. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months or years.
It is normal for life events such the death of a loved one, or divorce to cause
sadness. The thought of losing one's job or financial problems naturally causes
anxiety. Everyone feels the "blues" from time to time. However, if your sadness
is recurring or persists over several weeks, you may be experiencing clinical
depression.
The American Psychiatric Association defines clinical depression as having nine
symptoms, five or more which must be present over the same two-week period,
including one of the first two:
-
Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day, or
-
Markedly diminished pleasure.
The other seven symptoms include:
-
Significant weight gain or loss,
-
Insomnia (inability to sleep) or hypersomnia (excessive amounts of sleepiness),
-
Psychomotor agitation (unintentional and purposeless motions such as pacing,
hand wringing, etc.) or retardation,
-
Fatigue or loss of energy,
-
Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt,
-
Diminished ability to think or concentrate,
-
Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thinking, suicide attempts.
There are several types of depression including bipolar depression;
characterized by both high and low mood swings. Only a trained mental health
specialist can accurately diagnose depression, and treat the condition.
Physical conditions such as cancer, and kidney failure can cause depression,
and depression in turn can cause physical symptoms such as chronic pain, and
weight loss or gain.
Anyone can experience clinical depression, regardless of race/ethnicity,
gender, age, or income. In the United States, more than 20 million people
suffer from depression, and depression is the number one cause of disability in
the world. A common myth about depression is that it is "normal" for certain
people to feel depressed-the elderly, teenagers, new mothers, menopausal women,
or those with a chronic illness. The truth is that depression is not a normal
part of life for anyone, regardless of age or life situation. Unfortunately,
depression has often been misdiagnosed in the African American community
largely due to the stigma attached to behavioral disorders. The willingness of
individuals affected with depression to discuss their illness with physicians
and other health care providers is directly influenced by lingering concerns
about being ostracized or discriminated against if diagnosed with a "mental
illness." This stigma is a major barrier to assessing and treating depression
in the Black community. Clinical depression is not a personal weakness; in
fact, getting help is a sign of strength.
Clinical depression is a treatable illness. Like other illnesses such as heart
disease or diabetes, clinical depression is treatable with the help of a health
care professional. In fact, over 80 percent of people with depression can be
treated successfully, and the earlier treatment begins, the more effective it
can be.
The first step in getting help for depression is to talk to your doctor, who
may recommend a physical checkup to find out if there is any underlying
physical cause for the depressive symptoms. If clinical depression is
diagnosed, then your health provider will refer you to a mental health
specialist. Mental health professionals include psychiatrists, psychologists,
pastoral counselors and social workers.
There are many things that you can do to help deal with depression:
-
First of all, seek medical care! Talking with your minister or spiritual
advisor is a good start, but it should not take the place of consulting with a
trained mental health expert.
-
Regular exercise. A fitness program will improve your physical and mental
health, and help you sleep better.
-
Chocolate and caffeinated beverages such as coffee, soda and tea can make you
anxious. Avoiding caffeine can improve your mood, and help you sleep better.
-
Eat regular, healthy, well-balanced meals.
-
Participating in a patient support group can be very helpful during the
recovery process. Support group members share their experiences with the
illness, learn coping skills and exchange information on community providers.
-
Maintain your social network. Don't isolate yourself. Stay connected with other
people. Exercise and discuss your depression with close friends and family.
-
Avoid drugs and alcohol. Many people with depression "self medicate" by using
drugs and alcohol. These substances are can make your depression worse, and can
interfere with the effectiveness of medication that you may be taking.
-
Become active in your community. Volunteer as a mentor or a tutor. Support a
community garden. Work in a church program or senior center. Community service
will make you feel good about yourself, and keep you connected with people.
-
Find a hobby. Do creative things in your spare time, such as painting,
carpentry, music, or dancing. Doing things that give you pleasure will improve
your mood.
-
Learn how to relax. Mental relaxation can help you manage stress and anxiety.
Meditation, massage, a relaxing hot bath, listening to soothing music can help
calm your mind.
These suggestions can help people with depression, but they are not enough.
They can't replace medical treatment or therapy from a mental health expert.
Depression is a serious illness, and it carries a risk of suicide. If you are
thinking about suicide, seek help immediately. And never stop or change
treatment without discussing it carefully with your health provider.
Depression Q&A
Correct
answers will be marked with a red asteric '*'
|
|
|
|
|