WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is depression? Depression is a medical condition that causes feelings of sadness or hopelessness that do not go away. Depression may cause you to lose interest in things you used to enjoy. These feelings may interfere with your daily life. What causes or increases my risk for depression? Depression may be caused by changes in brain chemicals that affect your mood. Your risk for depression may be higher if you have any of the following: - Stressful events such as the death of a loved one, abuse, parental divorce, or loss of a friendship
- Parents, siblings, or other family members with a history of depression
- An anxiety disorder, ADHD, or a learning disability
- Low self-esteem or poor relationships with others
- A medical condition such as asthma, diabetes, or migraine headaches
- Drug or alcohol abuse
What are the signs and symptoms of depression? - Appetite changes, or weight gain or loss
- Trouble going to sleep or staying asleep, or sleeping too much
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Feeling restless, irritable, or withdrawn
- Feeling worthless, hopeless, discouraged, or guilty
- Trouble concentrating, remembering things, doing daily tasks, or making decisions
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
How is depression diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and how long you have had them. He or she will ask if you have any family members with depression. Tell your healthcare provider about any stressful events in your life. He or she may ask about any other health conditions or medicines you take. How is depression treated? - Therapy may be used to treat your depression. A therapist will help you learn to cope with your thoughts and feelings. This can be done alone or in a group. It may also be done with family members.
- Antidepressant medicine may be given to improve or balance your mood. You may need to take this medicine for several weeks before you begin to feel better. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effects or problems you have with your medicine. The type or amount of medicine may need to be changed.
How can I manage depression? - Get regular physical activity. Try to exercise for 1 hour every day. Physical activity can improve your symptoms.
- Get enough sleep. Create a routine to help you relax before bed. You can listen to music, read, or do yoga. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Sleep is important for emotional health.
- Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. A healthy meal plan is low in fat, salt, and added sugar. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about a meal plan that is right for you.
- Do not drink alcohol or use drugs. Alcohol and drugs can make your symptoms worse.
Call 911 for any of the following: - You think about harming yourself or someone else.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - Your symptoms do not improve.
- You cannot make it to your next appointment.
- You have new symptoms.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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