One symptom of depression is a feeling that one’s problems cannot be solved – a feeling of hopelessness. People who are depressed tend to see things from a negative perspective.
Another symptom of depression might be a dramatic change in appetite, possibly with weight gain or loss. [Read more…]
Symptoms & Types of Depression
There are many ways that depression can present itself, although certain symptoms seem to be more prevalent than others. The most notable symptom of this particular mental disorder is a feeling of sadness that lasts all day, every day. Many people with depression also report a loss of energy, an unwillingness to socialize with friends and family members, excessive fatigue, and a noticeable weight gain. In some cases, depressed individuals may even have recurring thoughts of death and suicide. [Read more…]
Depression-Related Illnesses
Although depression can be a standalone mental health condition, it is often caused by or the cause of other illnesses or conditions. A swift and accurate diagnosis of these illnesses, along with treatment, can make the conditions and symptoms much more manageable.
Medical illnesses that can cause depression include cancer, cardiovascular conditions, immune system disorders and diabetes. However, depression can accompany any debilitating disease that affects a patient’s lifestyle habits, self-sufficiency, self-esteem, life expectancy, or finances. Furthermore, the use of drugs or excessive alcohol consumption is known to cause and worsen depression symptoms.
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Depression by Gender (Men vs. Women)
Women suffer a far greater depression rate than men do. In fact, according to the National Institute for Mental Health, women are 70 percent more likely to experience depression at some point in life than men are. There are many reasons why scientists believe that women have higher instances of depression, some of which include the increasingly difficult balance of work and home responsibilities for many women and mothers. Furthermore, natural hormonal changes that occur throughout the course of a woman’s life can also lead to episodes of depression. Examples include the changing hormones associated with adolescence, menstruation, pregnancy, the post-partum period, and menopause. [Read more…]
Treatment for Depression
There are several different options for treatment of depression. For people who may have mild depression, psychotherapy may be helpful. Psychotherapy is talking to help you understand your thoughts and feelings and give you additional methods for dealing more effectively with them. This approach often brings about improvements in mood and functionality over time. [Read more…]