Depression In WomenA bout of loneliness or sadness which a person feels
only on occasion is normal. This is especially true when a major change or
setback has happened in your life, such as the loss of a loved-one. But when
these feelings remain relentless, so much so that one’s ability to function
from day to day is already impaired, the person may already be suffering from a
disorder. Depression affects millions of adults yearly. It’s been said that
depression in women is twice as prevalent as with men, but anyone can develop
this at any age regardless of gender or social status.
Cause
The cause of depression is not apparent or clear.
There are several factors that contribute to it. These include:
- events
that may lead to stress or trauma
- a family
history
- one’s
lifestyle
- one’s
gender
- for
women, hormonal factors
Studies have also indicated that the chemical make up
in our brain may have something to do with why people develop such a disorder.
Risk Factors
Depression may lead to other conditions that could
affect someone’s physical and emotional state. People with eating disorders and
personality disorders are said to be going through a depression that contributes
to the gravity of their existing conditions, hence they suffer further.
Additionally, studies by the National Mental Health Association also indicate
that people who are depressed may be prone to substance abuse. Suicide is also one
other thing that contributes to the risk factor.
These factors can lead to the development of chronic
illness like heart disease or mental incapacity.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary for each individual. But there are
generally some very common tell-tale signs. If these symptoms are exhibited for
longer than two weeks, a person may be diagnosed as clinically depressed:
- Mood swings – sensitivity, to the point of irrational crying spells; or its opposite – apathy; irritability, anger and pessimism.
- Lack of interest and self-esteem issues – avoidance of going to social functions or doing activities for pleasure; feelings of unworthiness, excessive worrying or guilt.
- Body changes and physical indications – drop in weight or a change in appetite; agitated behavior such as pacing or not being able to stay still, stammering, quiet or sluggish speech; feeling fatigued most of the time.
- Sleeping pattern changes – either one is sleeping too little or too much.
- Death wishes – thinking of dying or attempting to take one’s life.
In some cases, people attribute what they feel to a
physical disorder rather than a mental disorder. When recurring headaches or
stomach aches are not responsive to medicine, it is best to consult a
psychiatrist for this too.
Diagnosis and treatment
Aside from a physical examination and a mental
evaluation at the doctor’s clinic, the patient may be treated with the
following:
- Psychotherapy
– if the conditions are non-life threatening, a person may consult an
expert for therapy sessions.
- Electroconvulsive
therapy – this would be the best treatment for patients with
life-threatening depression disorders.
- Antidepressant
- some patients may require taking medication along with therapy, to
combat depression
- Alternative
– these are herbal teas or natural dietary supplements.
- Exercise
or other aerobic activity – this provides the same effects as an antidepressant
pill as exercise releases body chemicals that may help ease the feeling of
loneliness.
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