Depression is a common cause for individuals visiting their doctor. It is estimated that one out of every 10 people who visit a doctor has depression. This common medical disorder can be treated successfully in many individuals once they are diagnosed.

What is depression?

Dr. Brett Hodge

Depression is a mood disorder. It is more than feeling sad for a short time or feeling grief after a loss. Depression disrupts the individual’s daily life as it affects feelings, behaviour, thoughts and physical health. Depression is a medical condition like diabetes or hypertension. It is not a character flaw or weakness and, contrary to common thinking, you cannot just snap out of it.

What causes depression?
The causes of depression are not entirely clear. It is believed to be associated with certain chemical imbalances in the brain. A family history of depression may mean that you are more likely to have this disorder. Depression may be triggered by stressful life events and lack of social support. Medical disorders can also trigger depression. The use of drugs or alcohol or a history of abuse can also cause depression.

Depression can get worse around certain events, such as menstruation, pregnancy, loss of a baby, birth of a baby and menopause.

What are the symptoms of depression?
Individuals who suffer from depression often have several symptoms nearly every day, all day and for at least two weeks.

Symptoms include the following:
• Lack of energy and a tired feeling all the time
• Feeling sad or blue
• Lack of interest in things they used to enjoy
• Problems concentrating
• Poor memory
• Difficulty going to work or taking care of your daily responsibilities
• Slowed thoughts and speech or no speech
• Feel worthless or guilty
• Slow down or act restless and not able to sit still
• Changes in eating habits
• Changes in sleep habits
• Have thoughts of death or suicide or try to commit suicide

If you have at least 5 of these you should see your doctor. Relatives and friends may need to take their love ones to the doctor as depressed persons are reluctant to seek help on their own.

The time when the symptoms of depression occur is called an episode. An episode may last 2 weeks and often longer. Many people may have more than one episode. Depression may be mild, moderate or severe. No matter what type of depression you have if you ever feel that life in not worth living or think about suicide see a qualified doctor as soon as possible.

How is depression treated?
Depression is often treated successfully with professional counseling and medications. The earlier you start treatment the quicker you will recover.

There are many different types of medications for depression some of which have side effects. These side effects often occur in the first 2-3 weeks of treatment but gradually disappear. You may need to take medication for a few months before you feel better.

There are several things you can do to help you cope with depression. These include the following:

• Do not demand too much of yourself

• Do not expect to be able to do all the things you are used to doing

• Avoid making any major life decisions during an episode of depression
• Avoid drinking alcohol or using drugs that your doctor has not prescribed
• Follow your doctor’s advice. Take medication correctly.

• Seek out people you trust and support groups for help. Emotional support is key to help you get better.

Conclusion
Depression is a common medical disorder that can affect anyone regardless of age, race or social status. Many individuals who have depression do not seek professional help due to embarrassment or they feel they can get rid of it on their own. If you have depression you should seek professional help as there are successful treatments available to help you. You do not have to live your life suffering from the symptoms of depression.

Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. Dr. Brett Hodge is an obstetrician/gynaecologist and family doctor who has over twenty years in clinical practice. Dr. Hodge has a medical practice in the Johnson Building in The Valley.

| Printer-friendly page | Send this article to a friend |

World News