What Are the Symptoms of Depression?
Depression is a mental illness that can make you feel depressed, sad or empty. It can cause you to lose interest in things you once enjoyed. In severe cases it can result in thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
A doctor will diagnose depression based on symptoms and your medical history. They may recommend tests to rule out other conditions that may be similar to depression.
Changes in mood
Mood swings are an indication of depression, especially when they interfere with everyday activities and relationships. They can also lead to a lack in energy and a change in appetite. It is essential to talk to an expert if you have these symptoms. They may recommend therapy or medication.
There are a variety of kinds of mood disorders. The severity and length of the episodes vary. Some people have only one episode of depression in their lifetime, while others suffer from numerous episodes. Mood disorders also affect men and women in a different way. Women tend to have more depressive episodes than men.
A history of depression or manic episodes lasting 2 weeks or more is required to determine whether you suffer from bipolar or depression disorder. These episodes should be followed by periods of normality. During a depression episode you'll experience extreme sadness or emptiness. When you're in a manic stage you'll feel a sense of extreme excitement or irritability. In both of these episodes, you'll experience difficult to sleep and you'll be unable think clearly. In certain cases, you might be able to experience hallucinations and illusions.
In addition to mood swings, depression can also result in feelings of despair and helplessness. Some people may be prone to suicidal thoughts or ideas and others may be unable to go with the flow of life.
Other symptoms of depression are difficulties sleeping, losing interest in activities or hobbies, and changes in appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms in someone you love it is important to show them your love and assistance.
You can keep a mood diary to monitor changes in your mood. This will allow you and your doctor to better understand the signs, and identify any triggers. Numerous resources are available to help you manage your symptoms. These include self-help groups and support online services.
If you're experiencing a depressive episode, it's important to get assistance as soon as you can. Your GP may refer you to a mental team in the event of need. In the UK, your local community mental health team (CMHT) is usually responsible for this. Certain GPs might prescribe a specific drug such as lithium to help manage depression and mania.
Depression
Depression is a serious mood condition that affects your mood as well as your thoughts and behavior. It can range from mild and temporary to chronic and persistent. It can cause problems in your relationships, at work, and make it difficult to make it through your day. Talk to your doctor if experiencing depression symptoms. They can help you choose the most effective treatment.
It is possible to try a few different things before you can find the best treatment for you. It is important to let your doctor know how long the symptoms have been present and how often they are occurring. They may ask if your symptoms are similar to those caused by certain medical conditions or medications, like thyroid conditions or viral infections.
Feeling depressed or sad is the most typical symptom. You may feel hopeless guilt-ridden, unworthy or lose interest in a variety of activities. You may have trouble in sleeping or concentrating and your appetite could change. You may also be experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings of desperation or despair.
The symptoms of depression may differ between women and men and by the time of year. Children can show signs of depression when they refuse to go to school or act uneasy. They might also be clinging to their parents. People who suffer from depression symptoms in their 50s, 60s or older are more likely to use alcohol and drugs as a way to cope with their feelings than those who are younger.
Depression can be caused by a variety of factors, including brain chemistry and genetics. Stress or major life events and certain diseases are possible causes. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal and menopausal change can all cause depression. People with a family history of depression are more likely to develop depression.
Depression is treatable and the majority of those seeking treatment improve with psychotherapy or antidepressant medication or an amalgamation of both. If you've been suffering from depression-related symptoms for more than two weeks you should see your doctor for a diagnosis. They will ask you about your symptoms and your family history of depression and any other mental or physical illnesses that you have. They may also request tests on your lab to rule out medical illnesses.
Bipolar disorder
Everyone has moments of high and low However, for those suffering from bipolar disorder (formerly known as manic depression) these mood changes are extreme. These episodes can trigger highs called mania or hypermania, as well as depression-like episodes that are usually deeper than normal depression. These episodes can affect sleep, energy and activity levels, as well as judgment and behavior. Bipolar disorder can also trigger feelings of guilt and anger as well as feelings of anxiety.
When you are in a state of manic, you might feel euphoric and energized. You may also be creative and productive. You may spend a lot of time talking and sleep only a little, all while your thoughts are racing. It can be challenging to think clearly. This can lead to an impulsive behavior, such as spending money on unnecessary items or quitting your job with no notice. When you are experiencing a depression you may feel depressed or sad and lose interest in many activities. You might experience suicidal thoughts.
If you suspect you're having a manic or depressive episode, it is important to see your GP as soon as you can. Your GP will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They will do an examination of your body and conduct tests for blood to look for any medical conditions that may affect your mood. If they suspect bipolar, they will refer you to an area NHS community mental team (CMHT).
The medications used to treat bipolar disorder may cause side consequences, so it's important to talk with your doctor about these. You can avoid manic or depression-related episodes by taking your medication according to the instructions. Do not stop taking your medication unless your physician has instructed you to.
Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy can provide support, education and coping strategies to people suffering from bipolar disorder. Iampsychiatry can also aid those suffering from depression that is associated with bipolar disorder. Treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy, and family therapy. Self-help groups provide guidance and support for people suffering from bipolar disorders and their families. They can be a good source of support between episodes and can help people recognize early signs.
Treatment
During a bipolar episode, you may feel hopeless or very depressed. Other symptoms include changes in appetite or sleep issues. There is also the possibility of an extreme sense of irritability, or even guilt. Suicidal thoughts and feelings may be present in extreme depression. Your mental health professional can assist you to deal with these symptoms by teaching you coping skills and creating the treatment plan.
You can boost your mood by taking medication. Antidepressants, such as fluoxetine and sertraline which are selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have been beneficial for a lot of people suffering from bipolar disorders. These medications may not be suitable for all. Your doctor will decide the most effective medication for you based on your medical history and symptoms. Even in times of good health it's essential to continue taking your medication. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, the symptoms are likely to return.
Talk therapy (psychotherapy), too, is a crucial component of treating bipolar depression. Psychotherapy can help you learn to recognize the warning signs of a forthcoming mood episode. It can teach you and your loved ones how to manage your illness. Psychotherapy can be done either individually or in group therapy with other people suffering from bipolar disorder.
Certain people suffering from bipolar disorder have episodes of mania or high-energy moods. These episodes can be caused by hallucinations or delusions, which are false beliefs or perceptions that aren't real. If you have a manic episode that includes these symptoms, it's considered an illness that is serious and you should visit the emergency room as soon as possible.
If you have an underlying history of mania, your psychiatrist can prescribe an antidepressant to help prevent manias from occurring again. They may prescribe an antipsychotic drug such as quetiapine or Aripiprazole, to decrease the chances of experiencing a manic episode. They may also suggest electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which can relieve severe depression. It is also possible to benefit from transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) which is an uninspiring treatment that utilizes an electromagnetic coil to send small electrical pulses into your brain. It has been proven to treat depression that is resistant to medication, however, it isn't a requirement for general anesthesia.