Depression – Symptoms and Treatments
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Depression – Symptoms and Treatments
Many historical figures do not discuss their struggles with depression, and often refuse treatment, but they may have had a condition of some sort. These people may include the English writer Mary Shelley, the American-British writer Henry James, and even President Abraham Lincoln. Contemporary examples of famous people with depression include Leonard Cohen and Tennessee Williams. In addition to these historical figures, there are also many famous writers and musicians who have suffered from depression. It is important to learn about this condition and how to deal with it if you suspect you have it.
The symptoms of depression in adolescents and adults can be subtle, or more pronounced than they appear in younger people. For instance, older adults often don’t want to talk about their feelings of sadness, and they may cling to their parent and worry about their own mortality. Other symptoms of depression include irritability and anger, poor performance at school, and thoughts of suicide. Some teenagers even express their mood and irritability as physical symptoms. If you suspect your child may be suffering from depression, call 911 or consult a mental health professional immediately.
People with depression have many symptoms, including the following: a decreased ability to enjoy life, reduced energy, and lowered self-esteem. While feeling down can be a normal part of life, it can develop into a serious medical problem. When untreated, depression can lead to more severe health issues and can even affect your relationships. Even if you don’t believe you have depression, remember to seek treatment as soon as possible. It may be that a particular incident, such as losing a loved one or a job, has caused you to feel depressed, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re depressed.
There are many different types of depression. If your symptoms persist for months or years, it’s important to seek medical attention. In some cases, depression may be accompanied by another medical condition, like cancer or high blood pressure. For this reason, it is important to get a proper diagnosis for early treatment. A healthcare provider will perform a mental health exam and review your medical history. Only a mental health professional can properly diagnose depression. Getting diagnosed is the key to a successful recovery.
Fortunately, there are many treatments for depression. Using antidepressants has proven effective in treating depression, but these medications take time to take effect. You should consult your physician before stopping the medication or changing your dosage. Psychotherapy may be another option, focusing on improving your relationships and changing distorted views of self. Therapy can help you identify the stressors that trigger your symptoms and help you cope with them. So what are you waiting for? Get treatment today!
If your symptoms are severe enough, electroconvulsive therapy may be a viable treatment option. This therapy involves passing a mild electrical current through your brain, which triggers brief seizures. Seizures will restore the chemical balance in your brain, easing your symptoms. Typically, this type of treatment will only be necessary once a person has experienced severe depression. However, if you want to continue treatment, it may be necessary to experiment with different forms of treatment.