Depression is a mental disorder that manifests itself through symptoms like depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, low energy, and poor concentration. These problems can become chronic or recurrent and lead to substantial impairments in an individual’s ability to take care of his or her everyday responsibilities. In a severe case of depression, the individual suffering from depression may resort to committing suicide.
There are two kinds of this illness: Major depression, or dysthymia which affects mood; and Manic depression or bipolar illness, when feeling low and depressed alternates with recklessness.
The first thing you should do if you suspect that you may be depressed is visit your family doctor for a thorough checkup. It is preferable to visit your family doctor as he will be aware of your previous medical conditions and medical history. If you are unable to or maybe embarrassed to visit your family doctor, any other general physician will serve the same purpose. There should never be any embarrassment or apprehension when coping with depression.
Some other severe medical conditions can cause depression symptoms, such as vitamin and mineral deficiencies, female hormonal changes and thyroid conditions. So an individual should be absolutely sure by before taking any kind of medication and self medicating.
The family doctor or other physician you visit, will begin his diagnosis by asking you a series of questions. Questions that you may be asked include:
What are your symptoms?
Since when have you experienced these symptoms?
How seriously do these symptoms affect your daily activities?
Have you had these symptoms before?
Have you been treated for depression before?
If yes, what treatment was given and which worked the best?
Do any of your family members suffer from depression?
If yes, were they treated for depression and which treatments worked best for them?
Do you use drugs or drink alcohol?
Have you thought about death or suicide?
Depression occurs in persons of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. There is currently no laboratory test that can be used to diagnose depression. Depression is diagnosed based on your reported symptoms, signs that your doctor observes during the interview, your medical history and your family’s medical history.
The family needs to extend their love and affection and most importantly their support. It is very essential that the family be supportive of the individual suffering from depression through this difficult time.
Some Facts :
Depression is common, affecting about 121 million people worldwide.
Depression is among the leading causes of disability worldwide.
Depression can be reliably diagnosed and treated in primary care.
Fewer than 25 % of those affected have access to effective treatments.
In conclusion, depression like most major illnesses can be cured, if it is detected in time and is treated. Family plays an vital role in the treatment.
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