Depression

DEPRESSION

Depression

Just like heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, depression is a medical illness. It is caused by abnormal amounts of neurotransmitters in the brain (i.e. dopamine or serotonin). Depression affects over 19 million Americans each year and the number continues to grow.

Clinical depression is a serious illness that can be treated using medicine and counseling. It transcends age, race, and socioeconomic status. Depression can occur along with other medical conditions and make their management problematic. The statistics of depression are quite startling. One in four women and one in ten men will experience depression during their lifetime. Two-thirds of these individulas do not seek the necessary medical treatment. Approximately 80% of the cases of clinical depression can be treated with medication, psychotherapy or both. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce the symptoms and feelings of depression although medication schedules or dosages should not be altered without the consent of a physician.

Symptoms of Depression include:

1. Persistent angry, sad or empty moods.
2. Feelings of hopelessness, guilt or pessimism.
3. Substance abuse.
4. Fatigue.
5. Loss of interest in ordinary activities that once brought you pleasure.
6. Disturbances in eating and sleeping patterns.
7. Irritability, increased crying; anxiety and panic attacks.
8. Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
9. Suicidal thoughts.

If you have these symptoms on a recurring basis it is important to seek help from a qualified professional such as a physician or counselor.