Depression is a common illness which affects one in ten people during their lifetime; however, the majority of people with depression do recover with the correct treatment and support.
Signs and symptoms may include some or all of the following:
- Decreased interest or pleasure in usual activities or hobbies.
- Constant feelings of sadness, irritability or tension.
- A change in appetite, with significant loss of weight or weight gain.
- Loss of concentration with an inability to make decisions.
- Low self-esteem with feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
- Suicidal thoughts.
- A change in sleeping patterns.
- Loss of energy and feeling tired, despite a lack of activity.
The exact cause of depression is unknown, although some medical researchers have come up with various theories as yet unsubstantiated by empirical trials. Some individuals may have no idea as to why depression has struck them, whereas others can pinpoint a trigger to when their depression occurred. Some common factors involved in depression are:
- Trauma and stress
Problems such as the breakdown of a relationship, financial difficulties or the death of a loved one can bring on a depressive episode.
- Family History
Genetics are believed to play an important role in determining a diagnosis of depression.
- Physical Health
Serious medical conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer and heart disease can all contribute to depression. It can also make some physical conditions worse as it weakens the immune system, thus making the person more susceptible to other medical problems. In some cases, depression can be caused by medications used to treat certain conditions.
- Psychological and Behavioural Disorders
Certain psychological and behavioural disorders often appear alongside depression. These can include the misuse of substances, i.e. drugs and alcohol, anxiety and eating disorder
Once a diagnosis of depression has been made, individuals may be prescribed a course of antidepressants. These act on the Central Nervous System (CNS) which can have mixed reactions. Antidepressants should also not be used for long periods and normally only for 4-6 weeks. Addictive patients can often become dependent on the antidepressants and continue using them long after their effectiveness has worn off. We would advise anyone who is prescribed antidepressants to read the instructions on the packet very carefully and not to use them beyond the manufacturer’s advised limits.
Psychotherapy is one of the most effective ways of treating depression and studies have shown that talking to a professional and qualified therapist about your condition can help to resolve it. Short-term therapy is very popular and may occur over a period of 10 – 20 weeks. Again, therapy is best accessed for a maximum of 10 sessions and it is possible to become dependent on the therapy and it will lose its effectiveness after 2-3 months.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the most popular form of psychotherapy as it can help the individual change the thought and behaviour patterns that contribute to depression. People who are depressed tend to think negatively and CBT helps to identify and challenge these thoughts.
Other therapies may include group, psychodynamic and interpersonal therapy.
If after having undertaken a course of antidepressants, although with 6-10 sessions of therapy, your problem still persists, the solution is probably that you will need concentrated in-patient treatment in a residential clinic specialising in depressive illness. The success rates of in-patient treatment far exceed all other treatment options available.
For further information and advice on depression, please feel free to call us on 0844 344 1494 or 07845 308267 for further advice. Alternatively, email us direct at advice@aquariushealthcare.com
|
