Depression

What is Depression

Everyone of us knows what it feels like to be 'down in the dumps' or sad. We may even refer to ourselves as 'feeling depressed'.

However depression is a very serious condition which can affect a person both mentally and physically.

What are the Symptoms of Depression

Depressed people cannot 'snap out of this condition' or 'pull themselves together'. They need professional help. Therefore if you or somebody you knows is showing signs of depression, consult your doctor immediately. Do not suffer depression in silence hoping it will just go away on its own. Symptoms can include:

• Low mood.
• Depressive thinking.
• Anxiety.
• Emotional numbness.
• Lack or loss of interest in things you used to enjoy.
• Concentration and memory problems.
• Delusions or hallucinations.
• Feelings of guilt or shame.
• Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
• Lack of motivation.
• Suicidal or self-harming thoughts.
• Thoughts of death.
• Increase or decrease in appetite.
• Increase or decrease in weight.
• Loss of interest in sex.
• Tiredness.
• Sleeping problems (this can include too much sleep or having trouble getting to sleep or early morning waking).
• Constipation.
• Period irregularities.
• Recurrent headaches that don't go away with treatment.
• Other physical symptoms such as abdominal pain.

What are the Causes of Depression

Depression is frequently preceded by set-backs in life, such as bereavement, relationship or financial difficulties, problems at work or medical illness. We all react to loss with a sense of disappointment which in its impact can vary from mild to disabling. An inherited tendency towards depression is a major factor in determining how depressed a person will become following a loss.

Traditional Medical Treatments for Depression

Depressive and bipolar depressive illnesses are extremely responsive to treatment. Over 80% of the most serious depressions can be quickly helped. Effective psychotherapies (talking treatments) and non habit forming antidepressant medications enable people to recover from depression and help prevent recurrences.Regular exercise is recommended as the natural release of endorphins may helpm depression. If given proper care, people with depressive and bipolar disorders can achieve recovery and lead productive and enjoyable lives.

Complementaty/Alternative Treatments for Depression

Support Group Meetings are available at some 60 locations throughout the Republic and Northern Ireland for people with depression and their families. Here people can get the information and emotional support they so badly need, learn skills to overcome depression and will build self esteem and prevent relapses. Research shows that support groups are effective.