What Are the Symptoms of Depression?
Depression is a mental health issue that makes you feel sad and feeling hopeless. It can also make you lose interest in the things you used to enjoy. In extreme cases, it may lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
A doctor diagnoses depression by looking at your symptoms and medical history. They may recommend tests to rule out other conditions that could be similar to depression.
The mood swings
Mood swings are an indication of depression, particularly when they disrupt everyday activities and relationships. They can also cause fatigue and a change in appetite. It's important to consult an expert if you have these symptoms. They may recommend treatment or psychotherapy.
There are many kinds of mood disorders which vary in both the severity and duration of episodes. Some people have only one episode of depression throughout their lives, whereas others experience dozens. Mood disorders affect men and women in a different way. Women are more prone to depressive episodes than men.
A history of depression, or manic episodes lasting 2 weeks or more is required to determine whether you suffer from bipolar or depression disorder. These episodes should be separated by periods of normal mood. During a depressive episode, you'll experience feelings of intense sadness or emptiness. In a manic episode you'll have feelings of high intensity or irritation. During both of these episodes, you'll be difficult to sleep and you'll be unable to concentrate. In some instances, you may even be able to experience hallucinations and delusions.
In addition to mood swings, depression can also result in feelings of despair and helplessness. Some people may be prone to suicidal thoughts or plans while others feel that they aren't able to carry with the flow of life.
Other symptoms of depression are sleeplessness, a loss of enthusiasm for hobbies or activities as well as changes in appetite. If you notice these Signs of depression returning in someone you know, it's crucial to reach out to them and offer assistance.
You could also consider keeping an account of your mood to keep track of changes in your mood. This will assist you and your doctor better understand the symptoms and pinpoint any triggers. There are many useful tools available to help manage your symptoms, including support groups and online self-help services.
If you're experiencing a depressive attack It is important to seek help as soon as you can. Talk to your GP, who will refer you to a mental health team if necessary. In the UK your local community mental health team (CMHT) is usually responsible for this. Certain GPs might prescribe a particular medication like lithium to help control depression and mania.
Depression
Depression is an extremely serious mood disorder that affects the way you think, feel and behave. It may be mild, short-term or even severe. It may cause problems with your relationships and work, and it can make it difficult to make it through the day. Talk to your doctor if experiencing depression-related symptoms. They can help you choose the best treatment.
You may need to test several different treatments before you discover what works for you. You should inform your doctor about how long the symptoms have been present and how often they happen. They may inquire whether your symptoms are similar to those caused by certain medical illnesses or medications, like thyroid conditions or viral infections.
The most typical sign of depression is feeling sad or low. You may also have a lack of interest or pleasure in all activities, and feel unimportant and hopeless, guilt-ridden or depressed. You may also have difficulty concentrating, sleeping or changing your appetite. You may have suicidal feelings or thoughts, or feel depleted or depressed.
The signs of depression can be different for women and men and also based on the time of year. Children can show signs of depression when they are unable to go to school or appear irritable. They might also be clinging to their parents. People in their 50s and 60s with depression symptoms are more likely than younger individuals to use alcohol and drugs to manage their emotions.
(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/coe-2023.png)Depression is caused by a variety of factors that include brain chemistry and genetics. Stress or major depressive symptoms life events and certain diseases are possible causes. Changes in hormones during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopausal and menopausal changes can all cause depression. People with a family history are more likely to develop depression.
Depression is treatable. Most people who seek treatment will improve with either psychotherapy or antidepressant medications or a combination. It is recommended to see your doctor to get a diagnosis if have symptoms of depression that last for more than two weeks. They will want to hear about your symptoms, your family history of depression as well as any other physical or mental illnesses that you have. They may also conduct tests in the lab to determine if you have a medical condition.
Bipolar disorder
Everyone experiences ups and downs however for people suffering from bipolar disorder (formerly known as manic depression) these mood changes are quite extreme. They can trigger emotional highs, called mania or hypomania, and depression episodes, or lows, which are usually much more severe than normal depression. These episodes can affect sleep, energy and activity levels, as well as judgment and behavior. People with bipolar disorder can also experience other symptoms, including anxiety, guilt, and feelings of unease.
During a manic period you may feel euphoric, energetic and creative. You may spend a lot of time talking and sleep little, while your thoughts are racing. It can be challenging to concentrate. This could lead to impulse-driven behaviors, like spending money on unnecessary items or resigning from your job with no notice. In a depression-related episode, you might feel hopeless or sad, and lose interest in many activities. You may also be prone to suicidal thoughts.
It is crucial to speak with your GP as soon as you can in the event that you suspect that you are experiencing a manic-depressive disorder symptoms relapse. Your GP will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They will perform a physical examination and blood tests to determine if you have any medical conditions that could be affecting your mood. If they suspect bipolar, they'll refer you to an area NHS community mental team (CMHT).
The medications prescribed to treat bipolar disorder could have adverse consequences, so it's essential to consult your doctor about these. Following the exact dosage prescribed can help to prevent depression and manic episodes. Do not stop taking your medication unless your doctor has instructed you to.
Psychotherapy, also known as talking therapy can provide support, education and coping strategies for those who suffer from bipolar disorder. It can also assist those suffering from depression that is associated with bipolar disorder. Treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, and interpersonal therapy. Self-help groups provide information and support for people suffering from bipolar disorders and their families. They can offer support and information between episodes, as well as assist people in recognizing early symptoms.
Treatment
When you experience a bipolar disorder, you may feel hopeless or depressed to the point of being extremely depressed. Other symptoms might include changes in appetite or difficulty sleeping. There is also the possibility of intense irritability or guilt. Suicidal thoughts and feelings may be present in severe depression. Your mental health professional will teach you strategies for coping and develop a treatment plan to help you manage these symptoms.
You can boost your mood by taking a medication. Many people suffering from bipolar disorder are successful with antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine and sertraline. These medications may not be suitable for everyone. Your doctor will recommend the most effective medication for you, based on your medical history and symptoms. Even in good times, it's important to keep taking your medication. If you suddenly stop taking your medication, your symptoms are likely to return.
Talk therapy (psychotherapy) is an essential component of managing your bipolar depression. Psychotherapy can teach you to detect the warning signs of moderate depression of a mood-related episode that is about to occur. It can also teach your loved ones how to manage your condition. Psychotherapy can be conducted individually or with other bipolar disorder sufferers in a group setting.
People with bipolar disorders may suffer from mania-like episodes or high-energy moods. These episodes may be associated with hallucinations or delusions that are false beliefs or perceptions that are not true. If you suffer from a manic attack that has these signs, it's considered an illness that is serious and you should visit the emergency room right away.
If you've experienced an earlier manic episode, a psychiatrist could prescribe antidepressants to help prevent future manias. They might also prescribe an antipsychotic medication like quetiapine or aripiprazole to reduce your chance of having an mania attack. They may also suggest electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which can ease severe depression. Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a non-invasive method that makes use of an electromagnet that sends electrical impulses directly into the brain. It has been demonstrated that it can treat depression that is not responsive to medications, but does not require general anesthesia.(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/general-medical-council-logo.png)
