For the month of April I am participating in the annual A-Z Blogging Challenge. The Challenge was started by author/blogger, Arlee Byrd. http://tossingitout.blogspot.com
Each day of the month (except Sundays) we will post something based on that days correlating letter. Some of us chose a theme and others are winging it. My theme is the A-to-Z’s of Mental Health, Raising Awareness. It is a topic that is very close to my heart. I hope you find the posts interesting and you will comment and share the posts everywhere. To see a complete list of the participants or for more information-click on the badge over there to the right>
Today’s letter is D
DEPRESSION
Every single one of us at some time in our life will experience some form of depression. For most of us it isn’t serious. The sad, discouraged or blue feelings will pass after a few days. For some people those feelings linger for weeks, even months. If you have been feeling sad for longer than two weeks you need to see a doctor.
- 1 in 10 U.S. Adults has some form of depression
- 3.4% of those have major depression
- For people between the ages of 10-24 suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death
Symptoms-
* Little interest in activities you used to enjoy
* Significant weight loss or gain
* Sleeping too much or insomnia
* Trouble concentrating or making decisions
* Continuous lack of energy
* Feeling guilty or worthless everyday
* Persistent aches and pains, headaches, trouble with digestion
* Slow speech, moving slowly
If you have any of these symptoms within two-months of losing a loved one it is not considered depression.
If you are experiencing two or more of these symptoms daily, and the feelings last for more than a week your doctor should test you for hypothyroidism as well as ruling out other physical causes for your depression. Once a medical cause is ruled out it is a good idea to request a consultation with a mental health professional. If your primary doctor tells you that he/she can treat you, ask them what experience they have in treating depression.
Your doctor may prescribe an anti-depressant or a combination of medications. Before taking any medication familiarize yourself with the side effects and possible interactions with other medications.
Talk therapy is very effective in treating depression
While undergoing treatment for depression you should postpone making any major decisions.
Stop blaming yourself.
Tomorrow I will list some alternative treatments for Depression.
I would love to see you here too…
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16 thoughts on “Down in the Dumps or Depression? The A-Z’s of Mental Health”
Very interesting post. Depression is a topic most wish to hide under the table, but really needs to be addressed.
Thank you Carolyn. I agree it needs to be out there.
We definitely need to be aware of how common this is, and compassionate to those who are suffering. I think depression is a part of life, and you will probably suffer a lasting depression somewhere in your life. I also don’t think medication is the best solution, but it is definitely one approach.
I agree Crystal. Tomorrows post is all about alternate treatments.
I’ve had more than my fair share of run-ins with anti-depressants. They are helpful. However, there are side effects, as with any medication. I think the important thing, as you note, is to see a therapist while you are taking medication. I did that the first time and it was a much better experience, the second time, I went at it alone. Not the best decision!
Thank you Christina. You might find my Effective Alternate treatments for depression helpful.
This is an excellent post; you could save someone’s life, seriously.
I love the way you have a little photo next to the titles of your posts! How did you make that happen?
Thank you Barbara. If it helps one person I will be so grateful.
As for the photo ehen I create a wordprss post it ask me if I would like a corresponding photo. I just noticed it a few months ago it is tiny and all the way down on the right of the page.
Thank you for sharing. I have struggled with depression in my life and it wasn’t until 9/11 that I finally sought help. I am impressed with your theme! Keep it up!
Thank you Melanie. 9/11 had me running for help too. I hope you are doing better.
Depression is an insidious illness. A good post and it is so important to help people understand how debilitating depression is. Thanks
It is Cecilia. Thank you.
Great post. My theme for A to Z is also mental health. I’ll be back to see what you choose for your letters 🙂
Thank you. I will be over to read yours over the weekend. I’m looking forward to it.
I have a had Continuous lack of energy for many weeks now. I think its time I finally get this checked out, thanks alot for sharing this.
You have good advice in your article on depression. You should definitely look into it.