Depression is defined as a state of unhappiness and hopelessness. Depression affects everyone at some point in their lives. It can be related to the death of a pet, loss of a job or the breakdown of a relationship. For most people, depression is gradually relieved through the support of friends and family, the resolution of the problem and simply time.
For others, the symptoms persist and worsen, causing multiple problems in their lives and in their social interactions. Clinical depression is categorized as depression that persists and includes inability to concentrate, lack of energy, inability to sleep, and possible suicidal tendencies.
Common Depressive Symptoms Include:
- prolonged sad or irritable mood
- increased sleep requirements
- decreased appetite and energy
- problems with concentration
- frequent rages or feelings of anxiety
- decreased interest in social activities
- becoming more isolative and reclusive
- feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness
- dwelling on thoughts of death or making plans for suicide
Risk Factors for Depression
Risk factors for depression include family history of depression and/or suicide, drug or alcohol abuse and low socio-economic status. The history of a family member with depression is a strong indicator of the individual's likelihood of experiencing profound depression. Fortunately there is also a strong likelihood that if an anti-depressant worked for a family member it will work well for most members of that family, making treatment decisions easier.
For many people, drug and alcohol abuse will bring about permanent mood disorders that tend to be depressive. The combination of the chemical changes in the brain by the ingestion of these substances along with the decrease in the ability to earn a living and interact with others appropriately commonly leads to pervasive depression.
Treatment for Depression
There are many effective medications on the market for the treatment of depression. Many of these medications change the manner in which the brain processes serotonin, the chemical that elevates mood. Antidepressants are not without side effects and it may take time and patience in order to find the right medication for each individual. Knowing what medications have worked for other family members may hasten this process.
In addition to medication, psychotherapy is effective in teaching coping strategies when personal adversity occurs. Therapy also helps the individual to learn about their illness and develop techniques for managing it over the long term.
Risk of Non-Treatment in Depression
Depression can be an extremely debilitating illness. According to the National Alliance for Mental Illness, clinical depression leads to poor work performance and job loss, inability to maintain healthy relationships and is also the leading cause of suicide. In 2006 (most recent reported) there were 33,300 deaths by suicide in the United States, thus making suicide the 11th most common cause of death.
Sources:
National Alliance of Mental Illness nami.org (accessed February 9, 2010)
Suicide Prevention, Awareness and Support suicide.org (accessed February 9, 2010)
Wendy Swope - Nurse Practitioner: I am a Nurse Practitioner with 10 years combined experience in Critical Care, Psychiatry and Family Practice. I am ...
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