Did you know that depression is a common, treatable illness that affects more than 25 million Americans each year? It can affect anyone, at any age. It can also affect anyone of any race, ethnicity or gender.
More than just a bout of the blues, depression isn’t a weakness. It’s also not something you can easily snap out of. But with the right treatment and support, more than 70 percent of people who suffer from depression have a full remission of the illness.
What are the symptoms of depression?
Not everyone who struggles with depression experiences it in the same way. The severity, frequency and duration of symptoms vary, depending on the person.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent thoughts of hopelessness and/or helplessness
- Noticeable personality changes or extreme mood swings
- Extreme feelings of anger and irritability
- Loss of interest in once-loved activities or hobbies
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
- Significant changes in eating and sleep patterns
- Aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease with treatment
What are the causes of depression?
Expert mental health professionals don’t know what causes depression. As with many mental illnesses, there may be a variety of factors, including:
- Biological differences. People who suffer from depression have changes in their brains. The meaning of these changes is still unknown in many cases.
- Hormones. Changes in the body’s balance of hormones can cause depression. Hormone changes can result from thyroid problems, menopause or a number of other health conditions.
- Inherited traits. Depression is more common is people whose biological relatives also have this condition.
- Pre-existing health conditions. Depression is more likely to occur with certain illnesses like heart disease, cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Difficult life changes. Difficult life changes like financial struggles, divorce or the loss of a loved one can cause, or worsen, depression.
How do you cope with depression?
Coping with, and recovering from, depression requires action. But taking action when you’re depressed can be difficult. Just thinking about the things you can do to feel better can often seem overwhelming.
The key to recovery is to start with a few small goals – and to reward yourself for each accomplishment. You may not have much energy, but you likely have enough for a short walk around the block. This may seem small, but your efforts quickly add up. And for all the energy you put into your recovery, you’ll get so much more in return.
Start with these tips:
- Reach out to trusted friends and family members. T
- Challenge your negative thinking.
- Take care of yourself.
- Get regular exercise.
- Eat well.
Get help now
Knowing when to ask for help can be difficult. If you find these tips aren’t helpful in coping with, and recovering from, depression – or if you have thoughts of suicide – it might be time to seek professional help. Remember that depression isn’t a weakness. Millions of Americans suffer from depression, and Parkview Behavioral Health can help in time of need if you or your loved one is depressed.
Call the HelpLine at 260-471-9440 or 800-284-8439, anytime 24 hours a day. Our dedicated assessment specialists are available to guide you to the appropriate level of care – or resources – for your situation.
