Understanding Depression

The problems associated with depression are problems that affect millions of people around the world. Rich or poor, young and old depression and mental health problems can strike at any time and it is frequently misunderstood when it happens. It is especially difficult for those closest to the sufferer to understand what is happening. While it is not fully known why this disorder occurs some experts think that it is related to an imbalance of naturally occurring chemicals in the brain. Genetics can sometimes make people more suseptible, as can things like stress, trauma, physical and psychological disorders, and even one's individual personality. Sometimes, perhaps usually, there is no one cause, but rather a combination of various causes.

So, how can you tell if you or a loved one are suffering from this problem? There are plenty of symptoms to look out for but individualy they do not always mean you have depression. Sadness, despair and a lack of energy are commonly described by sufferers and of course everyone may experience some of these feelings at one time or another. Some people who experience them for an extended period of time with no relief and this is often the first sign that a depressive disorder could be to blame. The problems can be mild to moderate, in which case the sufferer is able to go about their everyday lives with little or no interruption. Or, the problem may be much more severe and lead to difficulty in leading a normal lifestyle and even thoughts of suicide.

If you suspect depression is a problem for you or a loved one, you should seek professional help and advice immediately. Many people feel uncomfortable talking about their feelings especially when they feel so low but anyone who thinks they might be depressed shouldn't feel guilty or ashamed about this problem. You are not alone. Try talking to a trusted family doctor first, who may either treat the problem themselves or refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for further evaluation and treatment. During the first consultation, they will ask about the symptoms so that a proper diagnosis can be made. Once a diagnosis has been made, treatment options can then be discussed.

Various treatments for depression may be suggested and for mild to moderate depression, cognitive behavioral therapy may be recommended or medication may be prescribed. There are several types of medications available for depressed individuals which are known as antidepressants such as Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and Celexa. Antidepressants are generally different to antianxiety medications. Antidepressants work by interacting with brain chemistry and encouraging normal function. It usually takes at least four to six weeks for results to show. During this time, you may benefit from working with a mental health specialist who can help you to learn coping mechanisms and try to discover and understand the roots of the problem.

Copyright 2007 Brian Gold - All Rights Reserved

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