Nov 25, 2001 11:56 PM
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(Updated Mar 20, 2002 09:35 PM)
There have been several issues on depression on MS but actually what is depression and how it should interpreted. Depression isnot just'feeling blue' or'down in the dumps.' ** It is more than being sad or feeling grief after a loss. Depression is a medical disorder(just like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease are medical disorders) that day after day affects your thoughts, feelings, physical health, and behaviors.
Loss of a friendship, relationship, loved one are not only causes of depression, it can be due to Family history and genetics, other general medical illnesses, certain medicines, drugs or alcohol, other psychiatric conditions. In some people, depression occurs even when life is going well. Remember, depression is not your fault. It is not a weakness. It is a medical illness. Depression is treatable.
When are you Depressed?
1.change of appetite;
2.significant weight loss or gain
3.change in sleeping patterns, such as fitful sleep, inability to sleep, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much
4.loss of interest and pleasure in activities formerly enjoyed
5.Loss of energy or feeling tired all of the time.
6.feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
7.feelings of inappropriate guilt
8.inability to concentrate
9.recurring thoughts of death or suicide
10.physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomachaches
Too often people do not get help for their depression because they don't recognize the symptoms, have trouble asking for help, blame themselves, or don't know that treatments are available.
Do I need a treatment?
Treatment reduces the pain and suffering of depression. Successful treatment removes all of the symptoms of depression and returns you to your normal life. The earlier you get treatment for your depression, the sooner you will begin to feel better. As with other medical illnesses, the longer you have the depression before you seek treatment, the more difficult it can be to treat. Most people who are treated for depression feel better and return to daily activities in several weeks. Because it takes several weeks for treatment to work fully, it is important to get treatment early before your depression gets worse.
How do you treat?
1.Antidepressant medicine.
2.Psychotherapy.
3.Antidepressant medicine combined with psychotherapy.
What should be My first reaction to depression?
The first thing to remember is that almost everyone feels depressed at one time or another. And, more often than not, most people return to their regular functioning at some point-you will not be depressed forever. Take time to assess why you are feeling the way you are feeling. Feeling sad or depressed in most cases is an expected and appropriate reaction to a stressor or situation. When you lose something important in your life, it is appropriate and expected that you will feel sad and even depressed. However, when these feelings become overwhelming, too intense, last for an extensive period of time, or significantly interfere with your ability to function, it might be wise to make efforts to change your situation.
Some ideas for Initial self-trial:
1.Give yourself a break from the stressful situation and/or event
2.Seek out the support and validation of friends and/or family, or seek out the assistance of those who may be able to change your situation
3.Attempt to do activities that were pleasurable to you, even if that means you have to take a break from the stressful event and/or feelings
4.Avoid making long term commitments or decisions until you are feeling clearer and more level-headed
5.Take things day by day-attempt to accomplish small goals as opposed to trying to solve everything at once. This is what you call take baby steps.
Time to go to Doctor Now.
If feelings of depression persist or worsen, it may be advisable to seek help from a friend, family member or mental health professional. Depression is a common issue that many students face, and alleviation of your symptoms is definitely possible.
Another alternative to consider is anti-depressant medication. Consulting with a psychiatrist can be helpful in deciding if medication is an option that you should consider.
Who are the people I should contact?
Treating depression is teamwork of following.
1.Psychiatrist
2.Psychologist
3.Social Worker
4.Psychiatric Nurse Specialist
Take it seriously or it will be a serious problem.
Dr Vipul
