Depression

The exact cause of depression is unknown. Depression can sometimes be triggered by a traumatic event such as the death of a loved one, divorce, emotional or financial stress, or childhood trauma. Other factors that may contribute to depression include:

• Hormonal changes
• Heredity
• Chemical imbalances or changes within the brain

The use of certain medications such as steroids, or alcohol or drug abuse may contribute to the onset of depression. Patients suffering from serious illnesses such as cancer or other long-term conditions may also develop depression.

While most people may feels sad or blue every once in a while, clinical depression affects the lives of those afflicted on a daily basis. Symptoms of major depression include:

• Feeling sad or hopeless
• Loss of interest in normal activities
• Crying spells
• Trouble sleeping
• Trouble concentrating
• Irritability
• Change in appetite
• Fatigue
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Suicidal thoughts

Depression is a serious condition that can severely affect individuals and their families. Left untreated, depression may lead to anxiety, isolation, difficulties at work or school, alcohol or substance abuse, and in extreme cases, suicide.

To diagnose depression, the doctor will conduct a full physical examination and a review of all symptoms. Blood and urine tests may also be performed to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to the depression. A full psychological evaluation is also performed to make a proper diagnosis and create a treatment plan.

Depression is typically treated with a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication. Antidepressants help to alter the brain chemistry to improve mood. Psychotherapy, in the form of therapy or counseling, aims to treat depression by by teaching the individual new ways of thinking and behaving, and changing habits that may be contributing to the depression.

Individuals with severe depression that does not respond to medication or therapy, may benefit from electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT. With this therapy, electrical currents are passed through the brain, affecting the levels of neurotransmitters, which often results in immediate relief of severe depression.

In extreme cases, hospitalization may be temporarily necessary if the patient cannot properly care for themselves or if they are in danger of harming themselves or others.