Depression Basics and Depression Treatment Information
Depression is one of the most common psychological problems, and it affects more than 70 million people across the world. Depressive disorders have been with man since the beginning of recorded history. Depression is a serious, but treatable, mental problem. It is a medical problem not a personal weakness.
A depressive disorder is a syndrome (group of symptoms) that reflects a sad mood exceeding normal sadness or grief. More specifically, the sadness of depression is characterized by a greater intensity and duration and by more severe symptoms and functional disabilities than is normal. Certain people with depressive disorder, especially bipolar depression (manic depression), seem to have an inherited vulnerability to this condition. In spite of clear research evidence and clinical guidelines regarding therapy, depression is often under-treated. Hopefully, this situation can change for the better.
Various Options for the cure and treatment of Depression
Depression Medication: Recent research strongly supports the use of medication for the treatment of moderate and severe cases of clinical depression. Antidepressant medication acts on the chemical pathways of the brain related to mood. Many highly effective antidepressants are available, and they are not habit-forming.
Psychotherapy for depression (talk therapy) with a qualified mental health professional can help teach people better ways of handling problems. Therapy can be effective in treating clinical depression, especially depression that is less severe.
Alternative therapy for Depression describes any treatment or technique that has not been scientifically documented or identified as safe or effective for a specific condition. Alternative therapy involves a variety of disciplines that include everything from diet and exercise to mental conditioning and lifestyle changes.
Depression Types
- Major depression is manifested by a combination of symptoms that interfere with the ability to work, study, sleep, eat and enjoy once pleasurable activities. Such a disabling episode of depression may occur only once but more commonly occurs several times in a lifetime.
- Dysthymia, sometimes referred to as chronic depression, is a less severe form of depression but the depression symptoms linger for a long period of time, perhaps years.
- Bipolar Depression
- Seasonal Depression
- Psychotic Depression
- Postpartum Depression
- Atypical Depression
Depression Symptoms
- Low mood for most of the day, nearly every day.
- Loss of weight or appetite, or overeating and weight gain
- Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism
- Irritability, agitation, or restlessness.
- Symptoms often seem worse first thing each day.
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, palpitations, chest pains, and general aches.
- Feelings of helplessness, guilt, and worthlessness
- Loss of enjoyment and interest in life, even for activities that you normally enjoy.
- Abnormal sadness, often with weepiness.
- Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or uselessness.
- Poor motivation. Even simple tasks seem difficult.
- Poor concentration. It may be difficult to read, work, etc.
- Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering
- Restlessness, irritability or excessive crying