Depression is a disorder that manifests itself through symptoms like loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, low energy, and poor concentration. These problems can become chronic and lead to substantial impairments in an individual’s ability to take care of his or her everyday responsibilities. In a severe case of depression, the individual suffering from depression may resort to committing suicide.

Depression is of 2 types: The sad kind, also known as major depression, or dysthymia; and manic depression or bipolar illness, when feeling low and depressed alternates with being wild and reckless.

The first thing you should do if you suspect that you may be depressed is visit your family doctor for a thorough checkup. It is preferable to visit your family doctor as he will be aware of your previous medical conditions and medical history. If you are unable to or maybe embarrassed to visit your family doctor, any other general physician will serve the same purpose. There should never be any embarrassment or apprehension when coping with depression.

Other medical conditions can cause depression symptoms, such as vitamin and mineral deficiencies, female hormonal changes and thyroid conditions. Therefore an individual should be absolutely sure by before taking any kind of medication and self medicating.

The doctor you visit, family doctor or any other physician, will begin the diagnostic process by asking you a series of questions and those could be :

What are your symptoms?

Since when have you experienced these symptoms?

How do these signs impact your regular responsibilities?

Have you had these symptoms before?

Have you been treated for depression before?

If so, what medication were you given and which worked best in your opinion?

Any of your close relatives diagnosed with depression?

If so, were your relatives treated for depression and which treatments worked best?

Do you consume alcohol or take drugs?

Have you been thinking about death or suicide recently?

Depression occurs in persons of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. There is currently no laboratory test that can be used to diagnose depression. Depression is diagnosed based on your reported symptoms, signs that your doctor observes during the interview, your medical history and your family’s medical history.

The family needs to extend their love and affection and most importantly their support. It is very essential that the family be supportive of the individual suffering from depression through this difficult time.

Facts relating to depression :

Depression is common, affecting about 121 million people worldwide.

Depression is one of the leading causes of disability around the world.

Depression can be diagnosed and treated in primary care.

Less than 25 % of those affected by Depression have access to effective treatments.

In conclusion, depression like most illnesses can be cured, only if it is detected in time and is treated. Family plays an important role in the treatment.

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