Lots of people enjoy a little cry every now and again, but when that cry turns into an extended period of sadness, inactivity and social withdrawal, you could very well be dealing with depression.
Lots of people enjoy a little cry every now and again, but when that cry turns into an extended period of sadness, inactivity and social withdrawal, you could very well be dealing with depression.
People are unlikely to talk about their feelings if they are depressed, says Doctor Rosalind Adlard of Fort England Hospital. It can therefore be difficult to help a friend or family member you suspect may be depressed.
Adlard’s advice is to be supportive whenever possible. Showing an interest in a depressed person’s life is important, as is listening to them.
It is also useful to encourage the depressed person to seek professional help from a counsellor or psychologist. Adlard warns that any threats of suicide should be taken very seriously.
Causes of depression vary and experts are still searching for a complete understanding of its roots. Genetic factors play a role, with a person who has a depressed parent being eight times more likely to develop depression.
Other social factors and emotional triggers, like the loss of a job or a divorce can also cause depression.
Symptoms of depression include:
•a persistently low mood
•change in sleep pattern – usually poor sleep (but may be increased sleep)
•disturbed eating patterns (decreased or increased appetite)
•a loss of interest in activities that they normally enjoy (anhedonia)
•low energy levels
•poor concentration
•reduced libido
•feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
•recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
•feeling restless or agitated
It is worth noting that four out of five people recover from depression without any help, but this tends to happen over a lengthy period of four to six months.
For those who don’t recover on their own, or do not wish to remain in this unpleasant state for a long period, the main treatments of depression are psychotherapy (sessions with a psychologist) or medication like anti-depressants.
A combination of the two are used in more severe cases.Information supplied by Doctor Rosalind Adlard of Fort England Hospital.
For more information see: www.sasop.co.za
www.nihm.nih.gov
