Depression is a common but serious mood disorder. It can cause symptoms that affect how we think, feel, and act. There are different types of depression, some which can develop due to different circumstances.
- Major Depression – Symptoms are present most of the time for at least two weeks and can interfere with the ability to eat, sleep, work, and study.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) – Symptoms can be less severe and present for at least two years.
- Perinatal Depression (Postpartum Depression) – Occurs when a woman experiences depression during pregnancy and/or after delivery.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder – Symptoms appear with the seasons, typically beginning in late fall and early winter and ending by spring or summer.
- Depression with symptoms of psychosis – A severe form of depression in which the person exhibits psychosis symptoms, such as delusions (disturbing, false fixed beliefs) or hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that others do not hear or see).
Some of the signs and symptoms of depression include, persistent sad or “empty” mood, feelings of hopelessness, feelings of irritability or frustration, feelings of guilt or worthlessness or helplessness, loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies, decreased energy, difficulty concentrating, difficulty sleeping or too much sleeping, changes in appetite, recurrent thoughts of death, pains or aches or digestive problems without a clear physical cause, suicide attempts or suicide.
Therapy is available to treat depression. Beyond therapy, some suggestions to manage symptoms include getting some physical activity (even a short amount of time walking can help), maintain a regular sleep schedule, eat regular and healthy meals, try not to do too much, try connecting with people and talk with people whom you trust about how you are feeling, postpone important, big decisions until you are feeling better, and avoid alcohol, nicotine, and drugs, including medications that are not prescribed for you.
Here is a link for resources to help: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression
Wonder if you have Depression? Click HERE to find out.