Depression is a serious mental health disorder that affects nearly a quarter of all adults in the United States. While it can be difficult to diagnose, it is treatable. Treatment may involve counseling, therapy, medication, and even alternative medicine. Almost all patients find relief from their depression symptoms.
There are two types of depression: major depression and persistent depressive disorder. Major depression is a condition that causes feelings of hopelessness and sadness and can last for a long time. Persistent depressive disorder is more severe and may lead to suicide. It can also make other illnesses more severe.
People with depression often have trouble concentrating at work, struggle with making decisions, and lose interest in many things that used to interest them. They might also experience digestive problems, back pain, joint pain, and sleep disturbances. Some people might also experience anger and aggressiveness. The cause of depression is not fully understood. But it is likely to have a biological, environmental, or genetic basis.
Many people do not know what to do when they feel depressed. They may try to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs. If they do not get help, they may have to deal with depression for years. This can be very painful. It can interfere with their relationships and prevent them from working.
Depending on the type of depression, treatment can take several weeks or months to work. Antidepressants can help relieve some of the symptoms. However, they can take up to two months to show their full effect. So it is important to discuss with your doctor if you are not seeing any improvement after a few weeks of taking antidepressants.
Psychotherapy, which includes talk therapy, is another way to treat depression. During counseling, a mental health professional will evaluate your behavior, look at your medical and family history, and help you address any issues. You might have to spend a few sessions with a counselor before you start to feel better.
Getting plenty of sleep and regular exercise can improve your depression symptoms. Taking care of yourself and your friends and family can help reduce stress. Stress is one of the main causes of depression. Other triggers include financial or relationship troubles, pregnancy, and perimenopause.
In order to treat your depression, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications or ask you to complete a questionnaire. He or she will also do a physical exam and explore the symptoms you are experiencing. A blood test can also be used to rule out other medical conditions that may be causing your depression.
For more information, check out the NIMH’s website on depression. You can also read their FAQs on how to choose a psychologist or therapist, learn about different kinds of therapy, and get answers to questions you may have.
Even if you don’t think you have depression, it is always best to get evaluated by a qualified health professional. They can help rule out other medical conditions and provide safe and effective treatments.
