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What is Depression?
A DEFINITION . . .
We are not referring to occasional "low" periods we sometimes call "the blahs" or "the blues." This is a condition that destroys motivation for weeks, months, or even years at a time.
It may be known by several names: clinical depression, major depression, chemical imbalance, nervous breakdown, burn-out, or melancholia. It is also often associated with acute anxiety or panic attacks.
THE SCOPE . . .
Each year, 9 million Americans are diagnosed with depression. While adults are the primary victims, children and teens can also suffer depression.
Current research shows:
1 in 10 men will suffer at least one debilitating episode during their lifetimes . . .
1 in 4 women will suffer at least one debilitating episode during their lifetimes . . .
THE SYMPTOMS . . .
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed . . .
- Lack of motivation toward responsibilities . . .
- General decrease of energy, fatigue . . .
- Disturbed sleep patterns -- insomnia, or unnatural need for sleep . . .
- Significant changes in appetite, weight loss . . .
- Inability to concentrate, remember, or make decisions . . .
- Pronounced feelings of guilt, despair, and hopelessness . . .
- Thoughts of suicide . . . (15% in severe (untreated) depression will take their lives)
THE NATURE OF DEPRESSION
- It is not laziness or lack of character . . .
- It is not "all in one's mind" that can be changed by an act of will . . .
- It is a type of mental illness, caused by a medical (biological) condition . . .
- It is associated with abnormalities in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. (More than 3 dozen types have been identified; the ones most closely identified with mood disorders are norepinephrin, dopamine, and serotonin.)
- Brain activity can be altered by too much or too little of any of the normal chemicals--causing mood disorders . . .
- If there is not enough of a certain chemical present, or if it is re-absorbed too quickly.
- If there is too much of a certain chemical, or if it is not re-absorbed quickly enough.
THE CAUSES OF DEPRESSION
- Some research suggests that there are genetic factors involved . . .
- Some research suggests that environmental factors play a part . . .
- The fact is--no one knows absolutely what brings about clinical depression!
- There are some things we do know:
- Women are more susceptible, probably due to hormonal changes; especially during menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth (and immediately after), and menopause . . . .
- Depression is often linked with stress--either a traumatic event or events in a short period of time, or a steady amount of pressure built up over a long period of time . . . .
TREATMENTS/THERAPIES FOR DEPRESSION
- ECT (electro-convulsive therapy)--in the most severe cases . . . and/or . . .
- Antidepressant medication . . . and/or . . .
- Counseling
[With proper treatment, about 90% experience full recovery.]
NOTES ON ANTIDEPRESSANTS
Antidepressants are not the same as tranquilizers and are not habit forming. Like any medication, there can be side effects or interactions with other medications to consider.
It may take some time to determine the best type of medication and the proper dosage for each person. There are different types of antidepressants; the following are just a few examples:
- Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) Inhibitors--which blocks an enzyme's activity in breaking down serotonin and norepinephrine (Nardil, Parnate).
- Tricyclics--which prevent the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine (Tofranil, Elavil).
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)--which is more directed toward preventing the reuptake of serotonin (produces fewer side effects) (Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Lexapro, Celexa, Lexapro).
- Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)--which prevents the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine (Pristique, Cymbalta, Effexor).
- Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors (NDRIs)--which prevents the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine (Wellbutrin, Focalin).
