Overcoming Depression
This article is meant to be helpful for those suffering from depression, as well as their loved ones.
Depression affects people differently and in different ways; some people experience periods of depression that come and go, while others live with chronic depression. Fortunately, there are many ways to overcome it. This article will discuss the causes of depressive symptoms, how to tell if one is depressed, and the various treatment options for combating it. It will also cover coping mechanisms for those who are currently experiencing a depressive phase. When seeking treatment it is important to find a doctor who understands the patient’s specific needs and anticipates their reactions during treatment so they can provide better care accordingly.
There is no one cause of depression; however, there are a combination of factors that lead to it. It can be caused by biological differences in the brain, environmental factors such as trauma or stress in early life, certain medical conditions and psychological issues related to the way one thinks. A recent study conducted on adolescents has shown that adolescents with a history of depression have different brain structure than their non-depressed peers. These structural changes may indicate a reason for depression in these teens and suggest that it might be caused by abnormalities in certain areas of the brain.
Of course, the most common cause of depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain. This chemical imbalance, called neurotransmitters, are responsible for movement of the body and emotions. Many varying factors can alter a balance between these chemicals, causing depression.
It is important to note that there are many types of depression, but all are caused by some form of imbalance between neurotransmitters that lead to problems with how one thinks and/or acts in response to things that would normally not be perceived as depressing at all. The two most common causes of depression are bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder (MDD). Examples of other types include postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and dysthymia.
A person who is suffering from depression may be unable to feel pleasure or have an interest in things they normally enjoy. They may experience changes in appetite, sleep, and energy levels. They may also feel hopeless or helpless and suffer feelings of worthlessness or guilt as well as feeling very anxious or agitated. They will often feel physically ill even when they are healthy; headaches and other body pains are common symptoms along with feeling cold all the time. They may also experience vivid, disturbing dreams or nightmares and may have problems concentrating.
In adolescents and young adults, depression can begin with a change in behavior; however, it is important to note that adolescent depression has a different set of causes than depression in adults. Adolescents are more likely to experience depression linked to changes in life such as the hormonal changes of puberty or stress at school. The symptoms of an adolescent who is suffering from depression will often include overwhelming sadness and anxiety, problems with sleeping and eating along with feeling weak or lethargic. They may also show signs of aggression or self-harm such as cutting themselves. They may have difficulty thinking clearly or concentrating and will often give away their feelings by crying easily. Of course, there are also changes in behavior that can indicate depression in adults as well. Some adult depression symptoms include lack of motivation to do anything, insomnia or oversleeping, persistent boredom or feeling of being a burden on others. They may feel hopeless and have thoughts about death and suicide. They may also have a loss of energy or feel physically ill.
Adolescence is a time that is filled with many changes, both good and bad; puberty brings on biological changes such as hormonal imbalances and the stress of school adds to the difficulty of adolescence. It is important for parents to be alert for signs in their children that could indicate depression so they can get treatment immediately if needed.
There are many ways to tell if someone is depressed. The most common symptoms of depression are changes in one’s mood, appetite and sleep patterns. Other common symptoms include irritability or anxiety, feeling sad or hopeless, having problems concentrating and making decisions as well as having thoughts of suicide or death. If a person experiences any combination of these symptoms over a prolonged period of time, they could be depressed – it is important to make sure however that the symptoms you observe are not caused by some other problem first by consulting with a doctor for a diagnosis. Generally speaking, any feelings that remain consistent over time may indicate depression even if the person feels better at certain points during the day (as their mood will often improve just before bed).
If someone you know is exhibiting symptoms of depression, most likely they have not expressed their feelings because they are too ashamed and are afraid of being ostracized. Often, friends and family of those suffering from depression will think that because the person has been able to cope with other situations in the past that it must be something else that is causing their problems. It is important to let them know that you are there for them, as there is nothing wrong with feeling depressed and everyone goes through it at some point in their lives.
During a depressive phase, it can be difficult for those who suffer from it to come up with solutions to help themselves feel better. There are many ways to deal with mild depression. If someone is experiencing extreme depression, they may try to avoid negative thoughts by focusing on other things or have unrealistic expectations of themselves.
If someone knows they are suffering from symptoms of depression, it is important to check on them regularly, especially at night when most people tend to feel lower in mood because they do not sleep well. Be sure to let them know that you are there for them and support them in whatever way possible. Often, people will find it difficult to seek help so it is important to try and get them to start seeking treatment. Research various treatment options and talk to the person about what they are looking for in a treatment.
It is also essential that you take care of yourself. Depression can be contagious so if you are with someone who is depressed, you may start feeling depressed as well. You may even feel like there is something wrong with you when your friend is depressed because it feels like being around them makes you feel bad; remember however that, just as the person suffering from depression needs support, you need support as well.
Very few people will talk about their feelings and if they do, they may be reluctant to share. It is therefore important to be alert for signs that someone may be depressed or at risk of becoming depressed.
If your child or teenager seems to have lost all interest in life, if they are not working as well in school and are having problems with friends and family, they could be suffering from depression. You should consult their doctor immediately; this is very serious and left untreated could lead to more severe consequences such as suicide.
It is important that you remain calm when trying to get your child or teenager the help that they need. Discussing the problem openly with them will help you and them feel better about the situation.
Conclusion
Depression is a serious condition that can affect anyone at any age, but especially so if they are a teenager. As with most serious illnesses, the sooner you start treatment the better; it is common for younger people to try and deal with things themselves without seeking help which can lead to severe depression. Feelings of sadness or hopelessness are normal in everyone at times but if they continue for more than two weeks then something may be wrong. If someone you know is suffering from symptoms of depression, do not take their feelings lightly; open up about how you feel about them and how you think things might be fixed because that will help them feel better.