Understanding Symptoms of Depression
There is no such thing as the one size fits all answer to what causes depression. Every individual is different and reacts differently to treatment. The most important thing to remember if you or somebody you know suffers from depression is that you must seek professional help. Never turn to alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cover up your depression. These will not make your depression go away.
The most common depression symptom is sadness, usually for reasons other than the actual physical illness or injury that is causing it. There are many types of depression and it is important to know the difference between them. Manic depression, also called bipolar disorder, usually lasts only for a short time and is characterized by extreme feelings of happiness and energy. Although this type of depression can lead to success in business, it does present a risk to personal relationships.
The next depression symptom is an increased level of fatigue or a feeling of constant tiredness. This type of depression is often associated with other health problems. Sleepiness is another symptom that may be present. Insomnia or difficulty staying asleep are other symptoms that may appear during extended periods of time.
Other symptoms of depression include changes in appetite, changes in sex drive, changes in bowel or urination habits and changes in sleeping patterns. Changes in mood, thoughts and behavior, feelings of hopelessness and changes in energy levels are typical changes in depression. Changes in the way that an individual sleeps and eats can be indicative of depression. If an individual experiences insomnia or the inability to get proper restful sleep there are probably signs of depression. If an individual overeats they may also exhibit symptoms of depression.
Sometimes, depression occurs along with or instead of another mental illness. Some individuals have undiagnosed bipolar disorder. Sometimes an individual may have a personality disorder, like bipolar disorder. Some medications, like antidepressants, can cause symptoms of depression. When depression runs in families it is sometimes referred to as multi-family therapy.
The symptoms of depression are most often found during the course of a normal day. Things that may seem as though they are nothing like the depression are actually related to depression. For example, if an individual feels sad all the time but drinks several cups of coffee each day they may be exhibiting signs of depression. If an individual loses their appetites they could possibly be suffering from depression. If an individual feels tired all the time but drinks four to five cups of coffee each day they could be displaying symptoms of depression.
If you are experiencing any of the above mentioned symptoms of depression you should seek help from your physician. Your physician will be able to properly diagnose your particular case of depression. If depression is caused by a mental illness your doctor will be able to treat the mental illness and possibly the depression as well. There are different ways that your doctor can treat depression and you should be open to any treatment options that your doctor has to offer.
If you are concerned that you may have symptoms of depression it is important that you share these feelings with your doctor. Your doctor may be able to help you to deal with your depression and to get back to living a normal life. Depression is a serious issue and should not be ignored.
As previously mentioned, depression is often associated with other health issues. Depression can be treated if the cause of depression is properly treated. If you do not treat the depression correctly it may linger on indefinitely. Untreated depression may result in severe medical problems.
Once your doctor has determined that you have depression you may choose to take medication to treat your depression symptoms. Sometimes these medications are very effective in treating the depression. However, medication is not for everyone. Always talk with your doctor before you decide to take medication to treat your depression symptoms.
The good news about depression is that it is treatable. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms of depression you should immediately talk with your doctor. Depression is a very serious illness and if you do not treat it correctly it can linger on indefinitely. Remember, depression is a disease that is treatable. If you exhibit symptoms of depression make an appointment with your doctor today.
Sources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007
- https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/clinical-depression/symptoms/
- https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/detecting-depression
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