Dealing with Depression

Many people do not realize how common depression is. It affects about one in ten people, and can be very serious. Untreated, it can even lead to suicide.

Many people don't recognize the warning signs of depression. People may even be depressed by not realize what is wrong with them. While symptoms of depression do include feelings of sadness, there are many other symptoms as well. Symptoms include a change in eating habits, either eating more or less that usual; a change in sleeping habits, either sleeping more or less than usual; and fatigue or lethargy. Symptoms include a lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities and social withdrawal. There are usually feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness. There may be thoughts of death or suicide. There may even be suicide attempts. For depression to be diagnosed, several of these symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.

Depression is a serious illness that requires treatment. Most often the recommended treatment is antidepressant medication combined with counseling, but every case is different. Only a doctor can tell you what is the best treatment in your case.

Depression may be caused by stress due to things that are going on in your daily life. This is known as situational depression and often responds well to counseling, although antidepressant medication may still be helpful.

Depression can also be caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain, in which case medication is generally required. Counseling can still be helpful, though, to help you learn to deal with the depression and how it affects your daily life.

Support groups can also be very helpful for people with depression. People who are depressed often withdraw from social situations, so a support group helps you stay in touch with other people. It helps you learn that you are not alone and also helps you learn new ways to cope with your illness. Support from family and friends is important, too.