Recipe and Health Articles

What is Depression?
Depression is a mental health disorder that can affect the way we eat and sleep, the way we feel about yourself, and the way we think about things. A depressive disorder is more than a passing mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness, and it cannot be willed or wished away.

Causes of depression

Some of us may feel like we know exactly why we are depressed. For example:
When ones partner breaks up...
A loved one or a pet dies...
One loses his job..
One didn't get accepted into a professional school...

There are many theories about the causes of depression. However the truth remains that there is no simple answer. Many interrelated factors are likely to play a role, from imbalances of neurotransmitters in the brain to stressful life events and certain personality styles. Depression can come on in any stage of life. It may be in teens or in old age.

Teen Depression

Teenage depression isn't just bad moods and occasional melancholy. Depression is melancholy, sadness or a mood of despair lingering for a long time that limits a child's ability to function normally.

Depression in women

Women are two times more likely than men to suffer from depression, and the way women experience depression is often different than it is for men. Discover the unique causes and risk factors involved in female depression and learn about effective treatments that can help.

Depression in older adults and the elderly

Depression is not a normal part of aging. It is a medical condition that can and should be treated at any age. Untreated depression in the elderly is more likely to lead to suicide than in any other age group.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

1.Intellectual symptoms:

Memory problems.
Difficulty making decisions.
Inability to concentrate.
Confusion.
Having a pessimistic view of life.
Repetitive or racing thoughts.
Poor judgment.
Loss of objectivity.
Desire to escape or run away.

2. Emotional symptoms:

Moody and hypersensitive.
Restlessness and anxiety.
Having a feeling of sadness in general.
Anger and resentment.
Easily irritated and “on edge”.
Sense of being overwhelmed.
Lack of confidence.
Apathy.
Urge to laugh or cry at inappropriate times.

3. Physical symptoms:

Headaches.
Digestive problems.
Muscle tension and pain.
Sleep disturbances.
Fatigue.
Chest pain, irregular heartbeat.
High blood pressure.
Weight gain or loss.
Asthma or shortness of breath.
Skin problems.
Decreased sex drive

4. Behavioral symptoms:

Eating more or less.
Sleeping too much or too little.
Isolating oneself from others.
Neglecting ones responsibilities.
Increasing alcohol and drug use.
Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting, pacing).
Teeth grinding or jaw clenching.
Overdoing activities such as exercising or shopping.
Losing temper easily.
Overreacting to unexpected problems

Treatments for Depression

1.Reach ones goals.
2.Build on the strengths one has and the things he can do.
3.Plan ones health care based on his needs.
4.Live life without the interference of symptoms.
5.Treatments can include some or all of these elements: therapy, medications, peer support, and overall lifestyle changes.

Written by:
Parneet

Ask her your health related questions at pallavi[at]hungrybangalore[dot]com.