Depression

Depression

Depression, sometimes known as clinical depression or major depressive disorder, is a serious mood disorder that is more commonplace than people often realize. Some of the ways a depressive disorder can affect your thinking and feeling, which are what most people think about regarding this condition. You might see some disruption in day-to-day activities, such as work, sleeping, and eating. A diagnosis usually comes after you have had these symptoms for no less than two weeks.

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Depressive Symptoms

There are symptoms that are highly indicative of depression. If you've had any of these symptoms daily or almost daily, for at least two weeks, doctors will consider a depressive disorder as a strong likelihood.

A sad, anxious, or empty mood that ends up being persistent, as well as hopeless or pessimistic feelings, are very common. People living with depression can also feel irritable, guilty, hopeless or worthless, and lose interest in things, often things that had previously been important to them.

Fatigue and low energy levels are quite common, as well as talking or moving more slowly. By contrast, some might report feelings of restlessness. Difficulty sleeping, oversleeping, and problems concentrating, as well as appetite or weight problems, may affect some living with this condition.

Some people living with depression may have pain issues, digestive upsets, or other physical symptoms without a known cause. More severe symptoms that ought to be a cause for concern are thoughts about death or suicide, or even attempting suicide.

Different Types of Depression Disorders.
There are different forms of depression that patients may experience, including persistent depressive disorder, or dysthymia. Persistent depressive disorder lasts for at least two years, with or without depression-free intervals.

Postpartum depression, which can happen during pregnancy or up to two weeks after birth, takes the form of a major depressive episode in most cases. Mothers living with this form often find caring for their child difficult because of their level of fatigue and exhaustion.

Seasonal affective disorder is another form of depression that is reasonably common. People who live with this condition have depressive symptoms due to decreased sunlight in the fall and winter months.

Psychotic depression involves the usual symptoms of a depressive disorder, along with psychosis that can include symptoms like hallucinations. Bipolar disorder involves periods of either euphoric or irritable moods, as well as periods that meet the definition of major depression.

Risk Factors.
With depression being one of the United States' most common mental disorders, it is reasonable to assume there are multiple risk factors. Psychological, environmental, biological, and genetic factors all play a possible role.

Certain illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer or Parkinson's or the medications taken to treat them can cause depressive symptoms. Major stress or trauma can trigger these types of symptoms. A family history of depressive disorders can also be a contributing factor.

Treatment and Self-Care.
Medications, such as antidepressants, can help decrease the depressive symptoms you are feeling. Most of these medications take a few weeks to work and you and the doctor may have to try more than one medication to find the right choice.

Psychotherapy, which includes so-called talk therapies, can also alleviate symptoms with or without medications. In some cases where other therapies prove ineffective, brain stimulation therapy might be an opinion for some.
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Self-care, including educating yourself about depression, can help you get a better perspective on what you're dealing with. Stay active, and exercise as you are able. Avoid self-isolation, because other people in your life can play a role in your recovery.

Confide in someone that you feel safe opening up to. When you set goals for overcoming your depression, be realistic about these goals, and understand that these symptoms will usually go away gradually. Consider delaying any major decisions until your symptoms are better controlled.

Faith Medical Clinic in Canyon, TX can help you with your depression needs.