Causes & Symptoms
What Causes Depression?
There is no one cause for depression. For some people, a single event can bring on the illness. Depression often strikes people who felt fine, but who suddenly find they are dealing with a death in the family or a serious illness. For some people changes in medications or the brain can affect mood and cause depression. Sometimes, those under a lot of stress become depressed. Others become depressed for no clear reason.
People with serious illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, or Parkinson’s disease may become depressed. Genetics can also play a role. Studies show that depression may run in families. Children of depressed parents may be at a higher risk for depression. Depression tends to be a disorder that occurs more than once. Many people who have been depressed in the past will be at an increased risk for becoming depressed again.
What to Look For (Symptoms)
How do you know if you are depressed? You may be facing problems that could cause anyone to feel depressed. Perhaps you are dealing with the death of a loved one or friend. Possibly, you have a chronic illness. Or, you might feel like you have lost control over your life.
After a period of feeling sad, people usually adjust and regain their emotional balance. But, if you are suffering from clinical depression, and don’t get help your depression might last for weeks, months, or even years. Here is a list of the most common signs of depression. If you have several of these and they last for more than 2 weeks, it is recommended that you see a doctor.
-An “empty” feeling, ongoing sadness, and anxiety
-Tiredness, lack of energy
-Loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities, including sex
-Sleep problems, including trouble getting to sleep, very early morning waking, and sleeping too much
-Eating more or less than usual
-Crying too often or too much
-Aches and pains that don’t go away when treated
-A hard time focusing, remembering, or making decisions
-Feeling guilty, helpless, worthless, or hopeless
-Being irritable
-Thoughts of death or suicide, a suicide attempt
If you are a family member, friend, or health care provider, watch for clues. Sometimes depression can hide behind a smiling face. A depressed person who lives alone may appear to feel better when someone stops by to visit. However, when someone is very depressed, the symptoms usually come back.
Don’t ignore the warning signs. If left untreated, serious depression can lead to self-harm or suicide. Listen carefully if someone of any age complains about being depressed or says people don’t care. That person may really be asking for help.
References & Resources:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-easy-to-read/index.shtml
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-listing.shtml