Back to Depression. Depression major depressive disorder is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home. Symptoms must last at least two weeks and must represent a change in your previous level of functioning for a diagnosis of depression.
Also, medical conditions e. Depression affects an estimated one in 15 adults 6. And one in six people Depression can occur at any time, but on average, first appears during the late teens to mids. Women are more likely than men to experience depression. Some studies show that one-third of women will experience a major depressive episode in their lifetime. The death of a loved one, loss of a job or the ending of a relationship are difficult experiences for a person to endure. It is normal for feelings of sadness or grief to develop in response to such situations.
But being sad is not the same as having depression. The grieving process is natural and unique to each individual and shares some of the same features of depression. Both grief and depression may involve intense sadness and withdrawal from usual activities. They are also different in important ways:. Grief and depression can co-exist For some people, the death of a loved one, losing a job or being a victim of a physical assault or a major disaster can lead to depression.
When grief and depression co-occur, the grief is more severe and lasts longer than grief without depression. Distinguishing between grief and depression is important and can assist people in getting the help, support or treatment they need.
Depression can affect anyone—even a person who appears to live in relatively ideal circumstances. Depression is among the most treatable of mental disorders. Almost all patients gain some relief from their symptoms. Before a diagnosis or treatment, a health professional should conduct a thorough diagnostic evaluation, including an interview and a physical examination. In some cases, a blood test might be done to make sure the depression is not due to a medical condition like a thyroid problem or a vitamin deficiency reversing the medical cause would alleviate the depression-like symptoms.
The evaluation will identify specific symptoms and explore medical and family histories as well as cultural and environmental factors with the goal of arriving at a diagnosis and planning a course of action. They are not habit-forming. Generally antidepressant medications have no stimulating effect on people not experiencing depression. Antidepressants may produce some improvement within the first week or two of use yet full benefits may not be seen for two to three months.
If a patient feels little or no improvement after several weeks, his or her psychiatrist can alter the dose of the medication or add or substitute another antidepressant. In some situations other psychotropic medications may be helpful. It is important to let your doctor know if a medication does not work or if you experience side effects. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Brown AY. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.
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Bipolar and related disorders. In addition to taking medications and participating in therapy, you can help improve MDD symptoms by making some changes to your daily habits. Nutritious foods benefit your mind and body, and while no foods can cure depression, certain healthy food choices can benefit your mental well-being.
Exercising , especially outdoors and in moderate sunlight, can boost your mood and make you feel better. People with depression often have trouble sleeping. There is hope. Never stop taking your medications unless your therapist or healthcare professional advises you to.
On days when you feel particularly depressed despite treatment, it can be helpful to call a local crisis or mental health service or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Resources are available. Read this article in Spanish. Depression can be debilitating for those that experience it. But there are many effective treatments available that can help you manage your symptoms.
Learn about the most frequently prescribed antidepressant medicines and their most common side effects. There are many types of depression. They share some symptoms but affect people differently. One of the most frustrating aspects of MDD is its unpredictability. Here are some insightful tips on dealing with your next unexpected episode. Researchers have studied numerous herbs, supplements, and vitamins to determine if they can benefit people with depression.
Learn what they've found. Watching a friend live with depression can be painful, but there are ways to help. Learn what to do, avoid, and how to recognize the signs of suicidal…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Mental Health. Depression Major Depressive Disorder.
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