Depression - What is Depression?
The latter type, sometimes referred to as ‘clinical depression’, is defined as ‘a persistent exaggeration of the everyday feelings that accompany sadness’.
If you have severe depression you may experience low mood, loss of interest and pleasure as well as feelings of worthlessness and guilt. You may also experience tearfulness, poor concentration, reduced energy, reduced or increased appetite and weight, sleep problems and anxiety. You may even feel that life is not worth living, and plan or attempt suicide.
Depression can affect anyone, of any culture, age or background. About twice as many women as men seek help for depression, though this may reflect the greater readiness of women to discuss their problems.
One thing that may make it hard for doctors to recognise depression is that people with depression often complain of physical problems, commonly headaches, lethargy, stomach upsets or joint pains, rather than low mood, sometimes because these can be significant symptoms, but sometimes because they find it difficult to admit to feeling emotionally distressed for reasons they may not even be able to identify.
Depression is usually related to upsetting life events, such as bereavement, relationship difficulties, physical illness, or job or money worries.
Are there different types of depression?
Bi-polar disorder (manic depression)
Someone with bi-polar affective disorder has both ‘high’ and ‘low’ mood swings, along with changes in thoughts, emotions and physical health.
Post-natal depression (PND)
About 1 in 10 women experience postnatal depression in the first year after having a baby.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Some people describe feeling depressed regularly at certain times of the year. Usually this kind of depression starts in the autumn or winter, when daylight is reduced.
How can you reduce the risk of depression?
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Keep in touch with you friends. If you are already depressed you find it very difficult to be sociable, and this can make you feel more depressed. So it is important for you to keep in contact with friends and find someone to talk to when you are feeling low.
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Keep active. Being more active is associated with lower levels of depression. Outdoor activity seems to be particularly important in staving off depression in older men.
Review your eating habits. Recent research has suggested that people who are depressed may have low levels of certain essential fatty acids, which are found in fish oils. It has therefore been suggested that people with depression should change their eating habits, for example eating more oily fish such as sardines, or should take fish oil supplements.
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Investigate herbal medicine. St John’s Wort ( Hypericum perforatum) can help many people with mild to moderate depression. Before taking St John’s Wort check with your doctor or pharmacist especially if you are taking other kinds of medication, for example for heart disease, epilepsy, asthma or migraine.
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Investigate self-help techniques. Some people have reported benefits from various self help techniques such as meditation, listening to music, and acupuncture.
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Take control. Some people find it helps if they have some control over what happens. This helps to guard against the kind of ‘hopelessness’ which is associated with depression. Activities that involve making a ‘fresh start’ have been shown to help people recover from long-lasting depression. Similarly, learning to set small or manageable goals can give you a sense of achievement and make you feel better.
There are a number of self-help books, guides, and software programmes which can help you to learn ways of coping with mild to moderate episodes of depression.
What treatments are there for depression?
Drug treatments
Anti-depressant drugs act by increasing the activity of those brain chemicals which affect the way we feel. Anti-depressants are thought to help 2 out of 3 of people with depression.
Tricyclic antidepressants, such as dothiepin, imipramine, and amitryptyline are often prescribed for moderate to severe depression. These usually take up to two weeks to start working and may have side effects.
Newer antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and SNRIs) target specific chemical ‘messengers’ in the brain. The most well-known SSRI is fluoxetine (Prozac) but there are several other brands. These newer drugs are popular because they tend to have fewer side effects than older drugs.
Lithium carbonate is sometimes prescribed to people with severe depression. High levels of lithium in the blood are dangerous so anyone taking lithium must have regular blood tests.
If you are prescribed drugs for depression you will probably be advised to take them for at least six months - or longer if you have a previous history of depression. You may experience withdrawal effects if you stop taking antidepressant drugs, particularly if you stop suddenly. These effects can include headache, nausea, dizziness and even hallucinations. Always consult your doctor before stopping taking anti-depressants. Do not stop taking medication suddenly as the withdrawal effects may be severe.
Talking treatments
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of ‘talking’ treatment. It is based on the fact that the way we feel is partly dependent on the way we think about events (cognition). It also stresses the importance of behaving in ways which challenge negative thoughts - for example being active to challenge feelings of hopelessness.
Interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on people’s relationships and on problems such as difficulties in communication, or coping with bereavement. There is some evidence that IPT can be as effective as medication or CBT but more research is needed.
Counselling is a form of therapy in which counsellors help people think about the problems they are experiencing in their lives and find new ways of coping with difficulties. They give support and help people find their own solutions, rather than offering advice or treatment.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
ECT is a controversial treatment which is intended only to be used for people with severe depression who have not responded well to medication or other treatments. The person receiving ECT is given an anaesthetic and drugs to relax their muscles. They then receive an electrical ’shock’ to the brain, through electrodes placed on the head. Most people are given a series of ECT sessions. Some people say that ECT is very helpful in relieving their depression, although others have reported unpleasant experiences, including memory problems.
For free advice on Depression or for a free consultation over the phone or in person ring 0151 678 3358 or 07714853 524 or visit http://www.clairehegarty.co.uk
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diane walker
http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/depression-what-is-depression-665085.html
October 3rd, 2009 at 11:53 am
Depression?
Okay,well I’m on anti depressents again and well my doctor told me I could have many times in my life of re-occuring depression. Depression runs in my family. I don’t see the point in living anymore if that is how it’s gonna be, if i’m gonna have depression for my life on and off.
I’m also 16.
October 3rd, 2009 at 4:55 pm
Dont get down on yourself! Depression is from a chemical imbalance in your body which you cannot control. Take your meds and continue to find things in life that bring you joy! They are there…in so many different forms!
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October 3rd, 2009 at 4:57 pm
aww hun.
i no a girl from my school that is like that and her brother commited suicide and shes really poor and stuff but u just gotta get out more go hang out with friends and get a bf and stuff ad then maybe u wont be sittin at home all the time and get more depressed!!! just give life a lil bit longer of achance but dont kill yourself and if no one else loves u i do and so does God ok?
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October 3rd, 2009 at 4:59 pm
Guess life is what ya make of it. I have been there, done that. My home cure for anything is a positive mental attitude, but the most impostant thing is laughter or just smile. Turn the corners of your mouth up and just see how it feels.
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October 3rd, 2009 at 5:01 pm
I’m sorry to hear that. It must be hard. Here is a website that I got from a girl who comes into my work. Check it out maybe there is something there that can help you. I read her auto bio and it was very touching. http://www.mistydiane.com Don’t give up on life or yourself.
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October 3rd, 2009 at 5:03 pm
i dont know depression can be cruel and yeah what is the point in living but try to get off those pills they make you looney i should know=(
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October 3rd, 2009 at 5:05 pm
It may sound trite, but I think we need to learn to accept ourselves. Why make things worse? You may find that people will love you. Depressed people can still help many more people in the world and contribute to others, which is the true meaning of life. Stop thinking only of yourself and start thinking about helping others who may be more unfortunate than yourself. The time for the self-pity party is over. Sorry to be so harsh, but time for a reality check.
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October 3rd, 2009 at 5:07 pm
first of all ignor michael’s comment. i know what your talking about. i go through it on and off all the time, but when life is good, its real good. the bum times are just stepping stones in life that we must jump to get where we’re going. your only 16 there is a whole world you haven’t even seen yet. places you have yet to travel. you need to find a hobby to keep you busy when your not doing school work. art, drama, dance, softball, hiking. get on line and research things that you have ALWAYS found fascinating and then do it.
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October 3rd, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Depression is an illness that many people live with. If it’s taken care of and if you follow your doctor’s instructions there is no reason why you can’t live a happy, productive life. From the questions you’ve asked in the past I can tell that you are a very inquisitive person and that is an all too rare trait in a person. I am sure that you have much to live for and you have a family that is very thankful to have you. I have no doubts about that. If you get into these moods and you feel that you may harm yourself or worse please tell someone close to you. A mental illness is no better or worse than a physical illness. If it’s treated then you can and should do whatever is in your power to lead a good life. I only know you from your questions and answers and I am under the impression that you are a wonderful human being with a lot to offer the world. Please talk to someone close to you who can help you through these rough times. I will be looking for more of your questions….
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October 3rd, 2009 at 5:11 pm
Please stay on your medicine or have the Dr. change it, what works for one doesn’t always work for another I take antidepresant and anxiety. I lost my husband to suicide about 19 months ago. Depression is the main cause of suicide. It is very high in the teenage years, hopefully you will grown out of it. You also have to work on it yourself.
I am sending some suicide hot lines for you and you can find many groups on the internet you can share and talk with.
I belong to a group of surviviors of partners that have committed suicide. There may also be some groups through your local mental health that meet and share their thoughts and feelings. These things are good to be able to share with others that really understand.
Troubled Teen Programs - Suicide
http://www.troubledteensprograms.com - Find programs, information, and options for your teen
SuicideHotlines.Com - When You Feel You Can’t Go On — Let Someone Know …
1-800-SUICIDE / 1-800-784-2433. 1-800-273-TALK / 1-800-273 … Suicide Is Not Justified Suicidal Brain Repair. I Feel Cured Every Day About My Treatment …
Suicidehotlines.Com - 25k - Cached
USA NATIONAL Suicide & Crisis Hotlines - When You Feel You Can’t Go On …
Phone Numbers, Web Sites, E-Mail, & Other Crisis Lines. USA National Suicide Hotlines … Call 1-800-SUICIDE / 1-800-784-2433. Call 1-800-273-TALK / 1-800 …
Suicidehotlines.Com/national.HTML - 42k - Cached
Suicide Prevention
Suicide - Hot Lines & Prevention. National Suicide Hot Line: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) … Their hot line staff is trained to handle calls and …
http://www.saferchild.org/suicide.htm - 49k - Cached
Suicide and Suicide Prevention
Authoritative, in depth, information about all aspects of suicide and suicide prevention. … Suicide contagion and responsible media reporting of completed suicides. …
http://www.psycom.net/depression.central.suicide.html - 24k - Cached
‘LIFE’ SPANS
BRIDGES GET SUICIDE HOT LINES. By JEREMY OLSHAN and JULIA DAHL … Seconds be connected to the Lifeline suicide-prevention hot line, officials said. …
http://www.nypost.com/seven/08302007/news/regionalnews/life_spans.htm - 40k - Cached
Befrienders International
The befriending movement worldwide working to prevent suicide worldwide with 31,000 volunteers in over 40 countries.
http://www.befrienders.org - 16k - Cached
Information | Centre for Suicide Prevention
Hamilton Suicide Crisis Line, Education and Resource Centre. 340 York Blvd. Hamilton ON L8R 3L2 … The Centre for Suicide Prevention is a program of the …
http://www.suicideinfo.ca/csp/go.aspx?tabid=86 - 33k - Cached
Youth Suicide Prevention Information
Suicide Prevention and Crisis Intervention Agencies. Youth Crisis and Information Hot Lines … SUICIDE PREVENTION HOT LINE (877) 7-CRISIS (Toll Free in …
Spyc.sanpedro.Com/suicide.htm - 3k - Cached
Suicide hot lines open on Aurora Bridge
… After a record nine suicides so far this year, the … When he finishes counseling, he plans to volunteer as a staff member on the prevention hot line. …
Seattlepi.nwsource.Com/local/296391_jumps19.HTML - 34k - Cached
These are for depression with teens
Teenage Depression Support
http://www.DailyStrength.org - Join Our Free Support Group Connect. Learn. Share. Support.
Schools are an essential first line. of defense in combating mental … ment, depressed teens are at increased. risk for school failure, social isolation, …
nasponline.org/resources/principals/Depression NASSP October 03.pdf - 248k - View as html
MySpace.com - INFO 4 TEENS - 47 - Male - Kyabram / Shepparton, AU - www …
… contact the KIDS HELP LINE on 1800 55 1800 or LIFE LINE on 131 114 which are … have every teen, everyone who has a passion for helping teens and everyone who …
http://www.myspace.com/info4teens - 190k - Cached
Teens_Against_Depression : Support for Depressed Teens
Take it for a spin. Best of Y! Groups. Check them out and nominate your group. Home … This is a group for teens, who are depressed, confused, angry, or …
health.groups.yahoo.com/group/Teens_Against_Depression - 23k - Cached
Yahoo! Groups : Directory : Teens
This is a group for people who are depressed and have nowhere else to … This is a group for teens, who are depressed, confused, angry, or afraid for one …
health.dir.groups.yahoo.com/dir/Health___Wellness/Support/…/Teens - 14k - Cached
" Treatment For Depressed Teens - Psych Central News
Join Our Support Group. Rate ‘n Review Depression Medications. Other Online Support Groups … Antidepressant For Teen Substance Abusers. Depressed, Sleep …
psychcentral.com/news/2007/07/23/treatment-for-depressed-teens - 28k - Cached
There are many more to check out online. Good luck and my prayers to you. This is serious, please get help.
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October 3rd, 2009 at 5:13 pm
The first time I can remember being so depressed I tried to commit suicide, I was 6 years old. I’m still here and I’m in my fifties. Yes, it can be with you always, but life can also be really worth hanging around for. I have a lifetime of awesome experiences I would never have had if I had been successful as a little kid. You need a nice counselor to help you through this. One who will help you find a good balance for you in your life and teach you how to rise above your illness to lead the best existence you can have. It is possible and it is what you deserve. Just letting depression rule you and caving to it is so unnecessary. There are worse things to be afflicted with. My best friend would trade with you in a minute…she has MS and lives her life in a virtual prison of a nonfunctioning body. But she can still use her mind and does so very, very well. Please don’t sell yourself short.
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October 3rd, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Don’t feel bad. Depression and Bipolar disorder are both very common these days. I have came to the conclusion that everyone is either depressed and/or bipolar. I was diagnosed with depression about 5 years ago and bipolar 7 months ago, (after 3 relapses with depression). It runs in my family as well. With the right meds you can feel "normal". Sometimes the side effects can make you a lil crazy and those arent the meds you want to be on. It will all work out and you will see the point in living.
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October 3rd, 2009 at 5:17 pm
I am 24 years old and I have mild to moderate depression and I am on meds and yes I hate having it but it something I have to live with.Talk to someone who you can trust and they can talk to you
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personal experience
October 3rd, 2009 at 5:19 pm
Those are a bunch of baloney. You don’t need anti-depressants… you need to go to a warm weather state and enjoy some sunshine. Go out with friends and surround yourself with positive energy. Read Kevin Trudeau’s book, and watch that movie the Secret. You don’t need to take pills, it’s a mental thing. Everyone has highs and lows in their life, but its the choice we make to be happy.
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http://www.thesecret.tv
October 3rd, 2009 at 5:21 pm
dont be depressed its not worth it i use to be but not anymore listen to your heart dont let others put you down i use to get comments that i’m ugly but just ignore they’re probably jealous.
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