Details Descriptions About :: depression

Depression causes symptoms treatment 

Description of Depression

DescriptionAccording to dictionary definition  It can be described as feeling sad, unhappy, hopelessness or lack of energy. The person having depression loses pleasure in activities that used to give joy in past. Even trivial daily routines like eating lacks interest. Depressed people feel completely unmotivated.  Causes and Risk Factors  According to dictionary definition  The exact cause of depression is unknown. It is generally believed that all mental disorders are caused by a complex interaction and combination of biological, psychological and social factors. Depression can occur due to genetic predisposition or triggered by certain stressful events. Sometimes it can be due to combination of both.  Following can be causative factors for depression:1. Alcohol or drug abuse2. Certain medical conditions, including hypothyroidism3. Family history of depression4. Central nervous system illnesses and injuries e.g., Brain  tumors, head trauma, multiple sclerosis, stroke5. Chronic illness like cancer6. Chronic pain7. Certain medications such as steroids8. Sleeping problems9. Stressful life events, such as disappointment in love    Signs And SymptomsAccording to dictionary definition  Symptoms of depression can include:1. Persistent sad, gloomy mood2. Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism3. Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed4. Fatigue and lack of energy5. Restlessness, and irritability6. Isolation or social withdrawal7. Difficulty in concentration, remembering details, decision making8. Change in appetite, leading to either weight gain or loss9. Feelings of worthlessness, self-hate, and guilt10. Thoughts of death or suicide11. Insomnia, difficult sleep or excessive sleepiness  InvestigationsAccording to dictionary definition  1. Physician can conclude depression by taking detailed medical history and a physical examination.History of medications such as corticosteroids and drug or alcohol abuse should be noted.2. Blood tests like electrolytes, liver function, and kidney function can help to detect possible causes of depression.3.CT scan or MRI of the brain to rule out serious illnesses such as a brain tumor4. EEG (electroencephalogram) for recording any abnormal brain activity  TreatmentAccording to dictionary definition  It includes:
1. Medication: Anti-depressants such as  a) Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs)b) Serotonin nor epinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)c) Tricyclic antidepressants

2.Psychotherapy: This includes counseling the patient while talking about his feelings and thoughts, and guiding them about how to deal with depression. It helps patients to understand the issues behind the thoughts and feelings.It will include,  a) Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches how to fight off negative thoughts. Patients are also taught self awareness of symptoms, managing the causative factors, problem-solving skills.b) Group Therapy
3. Other treatments include,a) Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the single most effective treatment for severe depression, those with psychotic symptoms and it is generally safe.b) Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) consists of pulses of energy to stimulate nerve cells in the brain that are believe to affect mood.  Complications And When Should You See a DoctorAccording to dictionary definition  1. Suicide2. Alcohol or substance abuse, smoking3. Increased risk for other psychiatric diseases  Prevention and Prognosis  According to dictionary definition  To prevent the disease follow these DO €™s and Don €™ts,  1. Do not drink alcohol or indulge in drugs. These can worsen depression and might lead to thoughts of suicide.2. Take medication exactly as physician has instructed.3. Do activities that give pleasure or do routine activities in different ways.4. Divert attention in activities like reading books, listening music, etc. rather than brooding on thoughts that worsen depression5. Do regular exercise or yoga.6. Get involved in group activities7. Talk and share feelings with closed ones