CONDITIONS

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO SUFFER FROM DEPRESSION?

Persistent feelings of hopelessness and sadness over time are symptoms victims of depression share. There is a vast difference between depression and the occasional blues. Blues are short-lived and do not last nearly as long as depression. Depression changes the way a person thinks, causing him or her to lose interest in what was once exciting. Unlike the blues, depression is not a condition a person can transition out of but requires deep psychological evaluation, therapy and medication instead.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF DEPRESSION?

• Hopeless, sad, empty feeling
• Insomnia
• Excessive sleep
• No interest in previously pleasurable activities
• Emotional outbursts for no reason
• Guilt
• Physical signs such as heachache and backache

WHAT CAUSES DEPRESSION?

Biological variations in the brain are the primary cause of depression.

Other causes are related to:

• Faulty neurotransmitters
• Hormonal changes
• Family history of depression
• Loss of a family member or friend

WHEN DO YOU NEED TO SEE A CLINICAL PSYCHIATRIST

Depression is a severe mental health condition that, when left untreated, can cause complications related to thoughts of suicide and, in the process, affect other family members.

HOW DO YOU TREAT DEPRESSION?

Psychotherapy combined with medication treats depression symptoms in patients.

Medication that alleviates depression includes:

• Serotonin reuptake inhibitors are a group of antidepressants that are safer alternatives to conservative treatments and result in fewer side effects than some antidepressants.

Besides drug therapy, a psychiatrist initiates psychotherapy, including interpersonal and cognitive behavioural therapy.

Psychotherapy assists a person with adjusting to a crisis in the family, identify and replace negative behaviour with positive ways, develop strong interpersonal relationships and set goals accordingly.

Besides drug therapy, a psychiatrist initiates psychotherapy, including interpersonal and cognitive behavioural therapy.

Psychotherapy assists a person with adjusting to a crisis in the family, identifying and replacing negative behaviour with positive ways, developing strong interpersonal relationships and setting goals accordingly

FAQ