What is depression?
Depression is a serious illness that affects your mood and is called the “invisible illness” because it’s not always easily noticed like a broken leg would be. The truth is – more people are living day-to-day with depression than you would think. The National Institute of Health (NIH) says that 20.6 million adults in the US have experienced depression at least once in their lifetime. Understanding the basics of depression can help someone you may know or yourself. Let’s learn about depression together and talk about its causes, symptoms, and how to get help.
How do you know if someone might be depressed?
Depression is common, and it is MORE than just feeling sad or down. We all feel sad sometimes – this is normal, but there is concern when these feelings linger for more than two weeks. Some people may experience other strong emotions in addition to sadness. Here are some questions that a doctor may ask you when talking about depression:
● Do you feel hopeless?
● Do you feel guilty?
● Do you feel like there is a purpose to your life?
● Do you still do things that make you happy?
● Do you not go out as much as you used to?
● Are you eating more?
● Are you eating less or missing meals?
● Have you been sleeping more than you usually do?
● Have you not been sleeping enough?
● Do you have less energy?
● Do you have problems focusing even on simple tasks?
● Do you think about dying?
Signs of depression can differ for everyone; some may answer every question with a “yes,” and others may only feel these things occasionally. We are most concerned when depression may lead people to believe they should no longer be alive.
Who is qualified to diagnose depression?
Depression can occur with stressful life events or even when things seem to be “going right.” Some individuals are more likely to experience depression than others because of inherited traits — just like any other medical condition. However, it is not without hope.
Mental health professionals like therapists, counselors, and doctors can help provide guidance and personal treatment plans.
How is depression treated?
Depression is treated in a few different ways; options can include medicine, talk therapy, or a combination of both. Lifestyle changes like exercise, healthy diet, and stress management are also effective in managing depression and promoting overall well-being. Not all depression is the same, and each person should speak with their doctor to select the best treatment plan for them.
Medications used to treat depression increase the levels of the “happy hormone.” These medications help your brain produce more of the chemical that makes you feel happier—serotonin. A medicine like this could take up to four weeks to start working as the serotonin builds up in your brain.
It is important to visit your doctor after starting a new medication to discuss whether the chosen treatment is working, whether it needs to be stopped or changed, and whether there are any possible side effects and their impact on your life.
Do you have more questions?
Tune into the Tom Darro Viewpoint talk show on WEBR radio at 105.3 FM on Tuesday. Live callers are welcome and can speak to a physician on the air.
Who are the authors?
Certified healthcare professionals, including physicians and medical students, authored this article.