Elise Elliott
Doctoring Depression November 24, 2009
Volume 1, Issue 1
Introduction to Depression Affective disorders can develop in many different forms, including schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and depression. The latter may be broken down further and further, categorized by level of severity, age, gender, and Depression is described as “living in a black hole”
how long the symptoms have been evident (4). It is frequently described as ―living in a black hole‖,
and is more debilitating than your average sadness or bad mood (4). Its status as an affective disorder stems from its ability to disturb, or affect, a person’s life in major ways, possibly to the point where, in very severe cases, one could lose contact with reality (1). Depression can be caused by many things (see page 2), but is generally attributed to a failure to deal with psy-
chological stress, such as a death, loss, or major life changes (1, 2). This failure to cope may not always manifest itself in sadness—a depressed person may also feel empty, useless, uncaring, or angry (4). These feelings are usually intense (though varying) and persistent (4). They can, however, be treated. It is not always easy or immediate, but at least 85% of all depressed persons can be treated to a significant level (6). This newsletter hopes to inform about an illness, and perhaps provide aid to those in need.
Symptoms and Signs (4, 2) There are many extremes in symptoms of depression; for example, one may have insomnia, or constant fatigue. Also, dramatic changes in appetite (whether it is overeating or under-eating), and hyper– or hypomania are possibilities. A depressed person may also feel hopeless, helpless, and often may have very low self-esteem.
Other signs could include: Difficulty concentrating
Irritability Loss of interest in previously enjoyed pastimes Isolation
Think you might be depressed? Look at the list of symptoms How your depression may be affected by your age and gender Possible treatments— there’s hope Resources for further information and help
Inside this issue: Physical manifestations (stomach or headaches)
Causes
2
Suicidal thoughts
Depression and Age/ Gender
2
Types of Depression
2
Treatment
3
Suicide
3
A Success Story
3
Bibliography and Resources
4
Negative thinking Guilt/self-loathing
Special points of interest:
Symptoms vary for each individual. You may have all or many or even very few of the listed signs and still be depressed. If you feel consistently sad for a long period of time, it would be wise to find help.