Dealing with Depression
Dealing with Depression
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious
medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think,
and how you act. Depression can cause feelings of sadness and/or loss of interest in things you once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and decrease your ability to function.
Depression can take on many forms, such as: Persistent depressive disorder (also called dysthymia) is a depressed mood that lasts for at least two years. A person diagnosed with persistent depressive disorder may have episodes of
major depression along with periods of less severe symptoms. Symptoms must last for two years to be considered persistent depressive disorder. Psychotic depression occurs when a person has severe depression plus some form of psychosis, such as having delusions or hallucinations. The psychotic symptoms typically have a depressive theme, such as delusions of guilt, poverty, or illness.
Seasonal affective disorder is characterized by the onset of depression during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight and you are spending more time indoors. This type of depression typically lifts in the spring and summer. Seasonal affective disorder or SAD is typically accompanied by social withdrawal, increased sleep, and weight gain. Seasonal affective disorder typically returns every year. Bipolar disorder is different from depression, but those diagnosed with bipolar disorder can also experience symptoms of depression. This is called bipolar depression. A person withbipolar disorder also experiences extreme high moods called mania or a less severe form called hypomania.
Signs and symptoms of depression
- Feeling sad or having a negative outlook
- Outbursts of anger
- Feeling irritable
- Lose of interest in day to day activities or things that would normally bring you joy
- Increased fatigue or low energy
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Nervousness, restlessness, or feeling anxious
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Poor cognitive function or trouble thinking, concentration, remembering, and making
decisions - Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-blame
- Major mood swings or uncontrollable emotions
- Physical problems such as headaches, stomach aches, or back pain
- Suicidal thoughts
According to the American Psychiatric Association, Depression affects an estimated one in 15 adults (6.7%) in any given year. And one in six people (16.6%) will experience depression at some point in their life. Depression can occur at any time, but on average, first appears during the late teens to mid-20s. Women are more likely than men to experience depression.
What causes depression?
Several factors can lead to depression
Abuse - Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse can make you more vulnerable to depression Stress - work, school, or relational stress can cause stress that leads to depression Medications - Certain medications can increase your risk of depression Loss - Losing a loved one can cause sadness or grief that can increase the risk of depression.
Genetics - A family history of depression may increase your risk of depression
Illness - Depression can accompany or be triggered by certain other medical conditions
Dealing with Depression
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, it can be difficult to get treatment.Depression drains your energy, as well as your hope, making it difficult to take the steps needed to feel better. When suffering from depression, even the simplest tasks can feel impossible.
Start Small
Taking the first step is often the hardest. It can also be the most impactful. If you are struggling with depression, start small with simple ways to improve your life and put you on the road to recovery.
Take a walk - Exercise can ease your symptoms of depression and boost your mood. Exercising may feel overwhelming, so start with a short walk around the neighborhood.
Eat a healthy meal - It’s important to nourish your body, not only for your physical health but also for your mental health. While picking up fast food is the easier choice, eating a healthy meal can fuel you to keep going and feel your best.
Text a friend - Connection is important for everyone, especially those dealing with depression. It is to become isolated with dealing with mental health struggles and getting together with others may seem overwhelming. Connect with a close friend simply by sending a text or making a phone call.
Do something fun - Finding things that bring you joy can motivate you to move past your depressive feelings - whether it's reading a book, playing an instrument, enjoying a sport, or doing an activity you like.
Get outside - Sunlight can do wonders for your mental health. If all you can do is step outside and sit in the sun for at least 15 minutes, you’re doing something to improve your mental health!
Speak positivity - When dealing with depression, the negative thoughts can be overwhelming. Speak at least one positive thing about yourself each day. Look for the things you love about yourself and challenge your negative thoughts as they come up.
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Seek Help
If you are dealing with symptoms of depression or struggling with your mental health, it’s
important to seek out support and guidance. Whether through a friend, teacher, parent, or mental health professional.
Mental health is not something to take lightly. It doesn’t show weakness to ask for help, but strength. Getting the help you need sooner rather than later can help you better learn to cope and recover from depression and get back to feeling your best!
Call your doctor today to learn more about treatment options and find what works for you. If you are unsure where to go or who to talk to, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Hotline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)