What Are the Symptoms of Depression?
Depression is a mental health problem that makes you feel depressed, sad, empty or hopeless. It can also cause you to lose interest in the things you used enjoy. In severe situations, it can lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
A doctor will diagnose depression based on symptoms and your medical history. They may prescribe tests to rule out other conditions that may mimic depression.
Changes in mood
Mood swings are an indication of depression especially when they interfere with daily activities and relationships. They can also cause fatigue and a change in appetite. It's important to consult your doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms. They might recommend psychotherapy or medication.
There are a variety of kinds of mood disorders. The severity and duration of the episodes differ. Some people experience only one episode of depression during their lives, whereas others have dozens. Mood disorders also affect males and women in a different way. Women are more likely to experience depressive episodes.
A diagnosis of depression or bipolar disorder requires the presence of depression or manic episodes that last two weeks or more. These episodes should be followed by periods of normality. In a depression episode, you will feel an overwhelming sadness or feeling of emptiness. During a manic phase, you will experience extreme exuberance or anger. In both of these episodes, you'll experience difficult to sleep and be unable to think clearly. In some instances, you could have hallucinations or illusions.
Depression can trigger mood fluctuations and feelings of hopelessness or helplessness. Some people will have suicidal plans or thoughts and others may feel that they cannot go on living.
Other symptoms of depression are difficulty sleeping, a decrease in enthusiasm for hobbies and other activities, and a change in appetite. If you notice these signs for someone you know, it's important to talk to them and offer support.
You can keep a journal of your mood to track changes in your mood. This will help both you and your doctor better understand the symptoms, and pinpoint any triggers. Many resources are available to help you manage your symptoms. These include support groups and self-help online services.
It is essential to seek assistance immediately if you are experiencing a depressive disorder. Your GP may refer you to a mental team if needed. In the UK it will typically be your local community mental health team (CMHT). Some GPs may prescribe a particular medication, such as lithium, to treat depression and mania.
Depression
Depression is a serious mental disorder that affects how you think, feel and behave. It can be temporary, mild or severe. It can cause issues with your relationships, work and it can make it hard to get through the day. Speak to your doctor if experiencing symptoms of depression. They can assist you to decide on the best treatment for you.
It is possible to try several different treatments before you discover what works for you. You should inform your doctor of how long the symptoms have been present and how often they occur. They may also ask if any of your symptoms are similar to those caused by specific medical or pharmaceutical conditions, like thyroid disorders or viral infections.
Feeling depressed or sad is the most common symptoms. You may feel hopeless guilt-ridden, unworthy or lose interest in a variety of activities. You may have difficulty concentrating or sleeping, and your appetite might change. You may experience suicidal thoughts or thoughts, or feel depleted or depressed.
The symptoms of depression could differ between men and women and also by the time of year. Children may show depression symptoms when they are unable to attend school or are angry. They might also be clinging to their parents. People in their 50s and 60s who have depression symptoms are more likely than younger people to use alcohol and drugs to manage their emotions.
There are a myriad of causes of depression, such as genetics brain chemistry, major life changes, stress and diseases. Depression can also be triggered by hormonal changes during menstrual cycles or menopausal cycles, pregnancy and perimenopausal. People who have a family history are at a higher risk of depression.
Depression is treatable. The majority of people seeking treatment will see improvement after psychotherapy or antidepressant medication or a combination. If you've experienced depression-related symptoms for more than two week you should see your physician for a diagnosis. They will want to know about your symptoms as well as your family history of depression as well as any other physical or mental ailments you may have. They may also request tests on your lab to rule out medical illnesses.
Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder (formerly called manic depression) is characterised by extreme mood swings. These episodes can trigger highs called mania or hypermania and depression episodes or lows that are usually deeper than normal depression. These episodes can affect sleep, energy levels, activity levels, judgment and behavior. Bipolar disorder can also cause feelings of guilt and anger, as well as feelings of anxiety.
During a manic episode you might feel euphoric, energetic and creative. You may talk a lot and sleep very little, but your thoughts are racing. It can be difficult to concentrate. This can lead you to make impulsive choices, such as buying unneeded items or quitting work without warning. During a depression episode, you might feel hopeless or sad and lose interest in various activities. You might also be experiencing suicidal thoughts.
If you suspect you're experiencing a depressive or manic episode, it is essential to consult your GP as soon as you can. Your GP will inquire about your symptoms and health history. They will conduct an examination of your body and blood tests to determine if there are any medical conditions that may be affecting your mood. They will refer you to a psychiatrist at your local NHS community mental health team (CMHT) in the event that they suspect bipolar disorder.
The medications used to treat bipolar disorder may cause side effects, so it is essential to consult your physician about these. You can avoid manic or depressive episodes by taking your medication according to the instructions. Do not stop taking your medication unless your doctor has advised you to.
Psychotherapy, also known as talking therapy can provide support, education and coping strategies for those with bipolar disorder. It can also aid those suffering from depression related to bipolar disorders. symptoms of depression in women include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy, and family therapy. Self-help groups offer information and support for people suffering from bipolar disorders and their families. They can be a valuable source of help between episodes and can help recognize early signs.
Treatment
During an episode of bipolar depression, you may feel extremely sad or hopeless. Other signs include changes in appetite or difficulty sleeping. You may also feel an extreme sense of irritability, or even guilt. Suicidal feelings and thoughts may be present in extreme cases of depression. Your mental health professional will provide you with coping strategies and develop a treatment plan to help you manage these symptoms.
You can improve your mood with medications. Many people suffering from bipolar disorder have success with antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as sertraline and fluoxetine. However, these drugs may not be effective for all. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate medication for you, based on your symptoms and medical history. It is essential to continue taking your medication on a regular basis, even during good times. If you stop taking your medications suddenly, your symptoms are likely to return.
Talk therapy (psychotherapy) is important in treating bipolar depression. Psychotherapy can help you to recognize the early warning signs of an impending mood attack. It can teach you and your loved ones how to manage your condition. Psychotherapy can take place either in a private setting or with bipolar disorder sufferers in a group setting.
People with bipolar disorder have episodes of high-energy moods, or mania. These episodes may be accompanied with delusions, or illusions which are false beliefs or perceptions. If you experience a manic episode that has these signs, it's considered an illness that is serious and you should visit the emergency room immediately.
If you have an underlying history of mania, your physician might prescribe an antidepressant medication to help prevent manias from occurring again. They might also give you an antipsychotic medication, such as quetiapine or aripiprazole, to reduce the chance of developing a manic episode. They might also recommend electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) which can ease severe depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a non-invasive method which uses an electromagnet that sends electrical impulses directly to the brain. It has been shown to treat depression that is resistant to medication, but it's not a necessity for general anesthesia.