Depression can make you feel as though you have no reason to get out of bed in the morning, and can make every aspect of your life become less enjoyable. There are several different causes of depression, each with specific time frames. Understanding your depression is the first step to controlling it, and beginning to live your life again.
Symptoms of Depression
Whether you are suffering from mild or chronic, severe depression you will have some of the following symptoms, which may vary in severity:
Uncontrollable crying or feelings of sadness
A “blue” feeling that lasts longer than a couple of weeks
Sleeping more than usual, or insomnia that lasts more than a couple of days
Changes in your normal eating patterns; eating far more or far less than usual
Loss of interest in your normal activities
Suicidal feelings or thoughts, whether you believe you would act on them or not
If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor, and if you experience suicidal thoughts, then seek emergency help immediately. It is important that you know that depression is nothing to be ashamed of, and there are many different treatment options available.
Chronic Depression
Chronic depression is characterized by long term, perhaps even life long, episodes of depression. It is important to have your depression diagnosed and treated in order to feel better over a long period of time. You may think that depression is characterized by suicidal thoughts, or even repeated hospitalizations. The truth is that major, chronic depression does not have to be accompanied by either of these characteristics.
If you have been suffering from depression for more than a few months, then you should be checked by your doctor. It is important to make sure that you tell the doctor all of your symptoms, even if you do not think that they are important.
Mild or Circumstantial Depression
Nearly everyone occasionally feels blue, and it is especially normal when you have experienced a loss or a major change in your personal life. For example, the death of a spouse or a change in careers are both common causes of circumstantial depression, which is a perfectly normal part of life.
You may want to talk to a therapist or grief counselor during this period of your life if you find that your depression is interfering with your ability to work or take care of normal obligations. Although it is common to experience depression at some point in your life, treatment can help you feel better if you are having a difficult time working through the depression on your own.
Treatment
Treatment for depression can include medications, therapy, or both. Talking to your doctor or therapist is the first step in finding the treatment that is right for you. Your doctor may refer you to a mental health specialist, or they may prescribe a medication for you to begin taking.
There are several different kinds of medications available to treat depression, and your doctor will work with you to find the right one and the right dosage for your personal needs. Working with your doctor can help you learn to cope with your depression, and help you begin to live life again.
Bart
October 29, 2008
This is an important issue and I’m glad you pick it up. So many people suffer from depression without doing anything about it. There is a way out of the unhappiness…
Such a simple thing as sharing your feelings and thoughts with someone else is a wonderful relief. It really soothes the pain to have someone listening to what you have on your mind – I recommend talk therapy wholeheartedly.
I’m sure many readers will find this post helpful _
December 18, 2008
Thanks for this very informative post. This is a nice blog and will be looking forward to read more from you.