Description of Depression :-
The exact cause of depression is unknown. Depression can generally be understood as feeling sad, hopeless, sad or lack of energy. A person suffering from depression loses pleasure in all those activities which only give pleasure in the past. There is also less interest in daily routine.
Causes or Risk Factors For Depression :-
Depression is usually caused by an interaction of mental disorders, psychological and social causes. Depression can arise due to some stressful events or due to genetic predisposition. The recall may then be due to a combination of both.Due to depression -
1. Family history of depression,
2. Problems with sleeplessness,
3. Stressful life events, such as disappointment in love,
4. chronic pain,
5. Chronic disease like cancer,
6. Abuse of alcohol or drugs,
7. Certain medicines such as steroids,
8. Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism,
9. Diseases of the central nervous system and eg, brain tumors, injuries, head trauma, stroke, multiple sclerosis,
Signs or Symptoms of Depression :-
1. Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism,2. being constantly depressed,
3. Loss of interest in old activities that were once enjoyed,
4. Irritability and restlessness,
5. Having thoughts of suicide or death,
6. Insomnia or difficult sleep,
7. Difficulty in concentration, remembering details, making decisions,
8. Changes in appetite, such as weight gain or loss,
9. Feelings of worthlessness, self-loathing and guilt,
10. Fatigue and lack of energy,
Depression Test :-
1. The doctor can rule out depression problems by taking a detailed medical history and a physical exam.Paying attention to a history of drug or alcohol abuse and drugs such as corticosteroids.
2. Blood tests such as electrolytes, kidney function and liver function help rule out possible causes of depression.
3. CT scan or MRI of the brain to detect serious diseases like brain tumors.
4. Electroencephalogram: EEG to record abnormal brain activity.
Depression Treatment :-
1. Certain anti-depressants, such as selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, serotonin nor epinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and tricyclic antidepressants medicine.
2.Psychiatry:
This includes counseling by talking about the patient's thoughts and feelings, and guiding how to deal with depression.
3. Other treatments for depression include,
a) Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective and safest treatment for those with psychotic symptoms for severe depression.
b) Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) consists of pulses of energy to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to affect mood.
Complications and When You Should See a Doctor :-
1. When suicidal thoughts arise.2. Smoking, alcohol or substance abuse.
3. For increased risk for other mental diseases.
Prevention and Prognosis of Depression :-
Dos and don'ts to avoid depression.
1. Do not consume intoxicants or drink alcohol. All of these can aggravate. depression and lead to suicidal thoughts.
2. Take medicines only as directed by your doctor.
3. Do activities that you enjoy in different ways.
4. Instead of contemplating on thoughts that trigger depression, you should focus on activities like listening to music, reading books.
5. Exercise regularly.
6. Join Group Activities.
7. Share your feelings or talk with closed ones.