We all feel low or down from time to time, but this is not the same as experiencing depression. Depression is a more persistent condition in which a number of feelings, such as sadness, hopelessness or lack of energy, dominate a person's life and make it difficult for them to cope. In order to overcome depression you must understand depression and its causes.
Causes include but are not limited to:
- Abuse. Past physical, sexual, or emotional abuse are often causes of Major Depression .
- Medications. Like accutane, and corticosteroids, can increase your risk of depression.
- Conflict. When biologically vulnerabie or prone to develop depression, one can develop Major Depression as a result from personal conflicts or disputes with family members or friends.
- Death or a loss. Sadness or gried rom the death or loss of a loved one, though natural, may increase the risk of depression.
- Genetics. A family history of depression may increase the risk. It's thought that depression is a complex trait that may be inherited across generations, although the genetics of psychiatric disorders are not as simple or straightforward as in purely genetic diseases like Huntingtons.
- Major events. Both possitive and neggative life events can cause depression. Examples include starting a new job, graduating, getting married, moving, losing a job or income, getting divorced, or retiring.
- Other personal problems. Problems such as social isolation due to other mental illnesses or being cast out of a family or social group can lead to depression.
- Serious illnesses. Sometimes depression can co-exists with a major illness or is a reaction to the illness.
- Substance Abuse. Statisically 30% of people with substance abuse problems also have major or clinical depression.
Symptoms of Depression may include the following according to the National Institute of Mental Health:
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness
- Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
- Overeating or appetite loss
- Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings
- Thoughts of suicide, and suicide attempts
If you are experiencing any of these causes, or symptoms, if you know you have depression and cannot overcome it on your own, or it is persisting longer than a few weeks call or text me immediately for an appointment at 432-770-2432, or go to the patient portal link below and follow instructions to set an appointment.
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