Depression
A depressive disorder is an ailment that includes the body, frame of mind and feelings. It interferes with the routine regime, normal functioning, and causes discomfort for the both the person with the disorder and those who care about them, although the maximum majority can be helped. A depressive disorder is a sign of personal weakness or condition that cannot be wished away. Individuals suffering from this illness require treatment to get better. Without any treatment, depressive illness can last for weeks, days, months or years. If proper treatment is provided then most people can overcome depression.
Common Symptoms of Depression
- Weight loss or gain
- Excessive sleeping
- Feeling irritable or sad, everyday
- Insomnia
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Suicidal thoughts or death
Depression is considered to be one of the highest treatable disorder. Just like all other illnesses, the earlier the treatment is provided, the more effective it is and the probabilities of recurrence can be prevented
The Approach towards Depression
The suitable way to approach depression is by consulting a physician. There are possibilities of certain medications or medical conditions such as viral infections and thyroid disorder, can cause these symptoms; and the physician needs to exclude these possibilities if any with examination, interview and lab tests. If a physical reason for depression is exclude, a test of psychological evaluation which includes mental status should be done either by the physician or a mental health professional.
An individual should converse about any family history of depression as well as their treatment, and get a complete history of symptoms, the time-line, severity and past history. And if so, whether a treatment was given or not. Inquiry is also made about alcohol, drug use and suicidal thoughts.
Once identified, an individual with depression can be treatment through various ways. The most recognized treatments are medication and psychotherapy.
The Arya Hospital Neuropsychiatry & Trauma Centre Can Help!
It is crucial that any drug or alcohol addict is carefully assessed for depression. If an individual identifies with the indications of depression, then they should be treated for both their addiction and depression. In some cases, anti-depressants are prescribed and it must be acknowledged that they are only a small part of the treatment and extra work of recovery must be included.