Depression – Learn How to Recognize and Attack Symptoms of Depression
|
Depression – Learn How to Recognize and Attack Symptoms of Depression
Depression is a serious medical condition that affects more than one in every six adults in the United States. It causes severe emotional symptoms and interferes with a person’s ability to function normally. It can also lead to substance abuse, and can impact the relationships of those who suffer from it. Fortunately, there are treatment options available. The first step in dealing with depression is learning to recognize the signs. You should also get support and advice from a health professional to help you recover and prevent symptoms from getting worse.
The symptoms of depression vary, but they often include a feeling of hopelessness and sadness. Some people may have intense feelings of low mood for many months or years. These symptoms are very disruptive, and they can cause significant problems in a person’s personal and professional life.
Physical symptoms can be very noticeable, and they include changes in weight, appetite, sleep patterns, and energy levels. Cognitive symptoms include irritability, memory problems, difficulty making decisions, and excessive worrying. Medications can be used to treat both types of symptoms.
For mild depression, you can try self-help methods on your own. However, you should consult with a doctor if your symptoms worsen or if you start to feel depressed while taking medications. If your symptoms do not respond to medication, you might need to try antidepressants and psychotherapy.
A combination of psychotherapy and medication is one of the most effective approaches to treating depression. Psychotherapy works by helping you learn to identify the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that contribute to your depression. Medications work by targeting the chemical messengers in your brain.
Depending on the type of depression you have, your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant or other psychiatric drug. Sometimes, other drugs are added to improve the antidepressant’s effects. Newer antidepressants are safer to take, and they may be easier on your body. Antidepressants can take several weeks to take effect, so you might not feel better right away.
In addition to taking antidepressants, you should try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Avoid alcohol and other recreational drugs. Take time to get adequate rest, engage in social activities, and spend time with friends and family.
For people who are severely depressed, electroconvulsive therapy can be used to affect the chemical messaging process in the brain. You may also be prescribed transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which stimulates the nerve cells in your brain that are involved in mood regulation.
The Mayo Clinic is currently conducting studies to find new ways to treat depression. One approach is called cognitive behavioral therapy, which aims to change the behaviors that contribute to your depression.
Other treatments include counseling and group support. If you need to see a mental health professional, you can find a variety of services through the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Many employee assistance programs are also available to help with issues such as depression.
Whether you choose conventional or alternative medicine, you should be aware of the risks of each treatment option. Remember, though, that there are only a few proven approaches to treating depression.
Related posts:
