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depression
Depression affects a person's body, mind and thoughts and how one feels about themselves.
The word 'depression' is often used to describe feelings of sadness and grief which are experienced by most people at times through their lives.
Clinical depression however is more intense than a sadness, it lasts longer and often involves feelings of anxiety and altered sleep patterns.
At present, several forms of depression have been described.
- Reactive Depression is a reaction to a very distressing event in a person's life.
This is the most common form of depressive episode.
- Post Natal Depression
- Approximately 10% of mothers develop depression following childbirth.
They may experience intense anxiety, fear, hopelessness and sadness, and may feel inadequate and unable to cope.
- Endogenous or Major Depression
- Some people become depressed even though there has been no particularly distressing or stressful event in their lives.
There is no evidence of anything accounting for the sadness, hopelessness and despair.
Sometimes, this form of depression may be unmasked by a certain event or situation.
Endogenous depression believed to be biochemical and associated with a chemical imbalance in the brain, but is not yet well understood.
SYMPTOMS
What Is Experienced By A Person Who is Depressed?
persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety restlessness or hopelessness.
constant pessimism
feelings of guilt, worthlessness and helplessness
loss of interest, motivation and energy
disturbed sleep patterns
disturbances in appetite (weight loss or weight gain)
loss of energy
thoughts of death or suicide
increased irritability
difficulty concentrating and making decisions
persistent signs of poor health that do not respond to treatment
CAUSES
What causes depression?
No single cause has been identified in the development of depression.
Among the predisposing factors are genetic influences chemical changes in the brain, psychological makeup and environmental stressors such as a personal loss, a chronic illness and relationship or financial difficulties.
TREATMENT
What treatments are available for depression?
Depression can at times be life threatening, necessitating hospitalisation.
Your GP often looks after patients with depression.
They will understand the problems that you are facing and how you are feeling.
Together you can plan to manage the depressive illness with medication and counselling.
Anti-depressant medications are very effective, and safe when combined with professional support.
Support from family and friends is also extremely important. If you are feeling really low, your GP is there to help you.
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