UNDERSTANDING DEPRESSION

Scope

What Causes Depression Symptoms of Depression Common Types of Depression Treatment for Depression Things to Do Things to Avoid Q & A

What causes Depression?

Family History

Having a family members who has depression may increase a person’s risk

Imbalances of certain chemicals in the brain may lead to depression

Major Life Changes

Positive or negative events can trigger depression. Examples include the death of a loved one or a promotion.

Major Illnesses such as heart attack, stroke or cancer may trigger depression.

Certain medications used alone or in combination can cause side effects much like the symptoms of depression.

Use of Alcohol or other Drugs can lead to or worsen depression.

Depression can also occur for no apparent reason!

Symptoms of Depression

Vary from person to person

2 key signs are loss of interest in things you like to do and sadness or irritability

Additional Signs include:

Changes in feelings which may include: Feeling empty Inability to enjoy anything Hopelessness Loss of sexual desire Loss of warm feelings for family or

friends Feelings of self blame or guilt Loss of self esteem Inexplicable crying spells, sadness or

irritability

Changes in behavior and attitude These may include:

General slowing down Neglect of responsibilities and

appearance Poor memory Inability to concentrate Suicidal thoughts, feelings or behaviors Difficulty making decisions

Physical Complaints These may include:

Sleep disturbances such as early morning waking, sleeping too much or insomnia

Lack of energy Loss of appetite Weight loss or gain Unexplained headaches or

backaches Stomachaches, indigestion or

changes in bowl habits

Common Types of Depression Major Depression Dysthymia Bipolar Disorder Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Major Depression

This type causes symptoms that may: Begin suddenly, possibly triggered by a

loss, crisis or change Interfere with normal functioning Continue for months or years It is possible for a person to have only

one episode of major depression. It is more common for episodes to be long lasting or to occur several times during a person’s life

Bipolar Disorder People with this type of illness change back

and forth between periods of depression and periods of mania (an extreme high).

Symptoms of mania may include: Less need for sleep Overconfidence Racing thoughts Reckless behavior Increased energy Mood changes are usually gradual, but can be

sudden

Season Affective Disorder

This is a depression that results from changes in the season. Most cases begin in the fall or winter, or when there is a decrease in sunlight.

Professional treatment is necessary for all these

types of depression.

Treatment for Depression

Medication Antidepressants can help ease the

symptoms of depression and return a person to normal functioning. Antidepressants are not habit forming.

Psychotherapy

This can help many depressed people understand themselves and cope with their problems. For example: Interpersonal therapy works to change

relationships that affect depression Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps

people change negative thinking and behavior patterns

If you or someone you know has symptoms of depression…

Take Action!

See a doctor for a complete check up.

Go to the counseling center and talk to a counselor.

Talk things over with a friend, family member or a residential life staff member.

Don’t expect too much of yourself Take a break Get some exercise Avoid extra stress and big changes

Things to do

Reduce or eliminate the use of alcohol or drugs

Exercise or engage in some form of physical activity

Eat a proper, well-balanced diet

Obtain an adequate amount of sleep Seek emotional support from family

and friends Focus on positive aspects of your life Pace yourself, modify your schedule,

and set realistic goals

Things to Avoid

Don’t make long-term commitments or important decisions unless necessary

Don’t assume things are hopeless Don’t engage in “emotional reasoning”

(i.e.: because I feel awful, my life is terrible)

Don’t assume responsibility for events which are outside of your control

Don’t avoid treatment as a way of coping

Q & A