DEPRESSION

Do you feel unusually depressed?

Experiences of depression or sadness are a part of everyday life. If however, they have gone on for unusually long or are specially severe, look for these signs -
Withdrawal from social activities, crying frequently, suicidal thoughts, waking up too early in the mornings, disturbed sleep, poor appetite, feelings of worthlessness, general tiredness, restlessness, lack of interest, blaming self for problems, preoccupied with guilt or health, low energy, slowed mental functions, reduced emotional response. In addition, suicide is a very real possibility in depression. So, one should be alert for any signs of suicidal thoughts or intentions.

When to seek help

If you should notice some of the signs mentioned above, and if you find that feelings of depression and loss of mental and physical energy are taking over so that daily life is disrupted, consult a psychiatrist. If the person seems to give up responsibility for himself and is barely able to care for his own basic needs, and if any ideas of suicide are expressed or suspected, seeking help must be immediate.

What causes depression ?
Treatment of depression

Few people realize that depression is treatable. The psychiatrist or psychologist can help the depressed person in the following ways:

Psychological testing -The psychologist can carry out several tests, among them tests of personality, tests for the detection of psychological problems, tests for determining interests and aptitudes and tests of intelligence level. These can be very valuable in planning the person’s treatment.

Medicationis often used in severe cases of depression, particularly when the depression is of the type caused by physical factors. It is useful in even mild or moderate cases to improve depression so that changes in life style can take place but must always be used under the supervision of a Psychiatrist

Hospitalization is necessary in cases of severe depression, specially when there is a threat of suicide. Electroconvulsive therapy may be required in severely depressed suicidal cases.

Psychotherapy involves working through the person’s problems and allowing him to express and come to terms with his feelings. A reassessment of the person’s life situation takes place and the person is helped to overcome blocks that prevent him living a more fulfilling life. The results of self help with treatment always makes the outcome better as it leads to personal growth apart from being therapeutic.

Courtesy: www.rahat.org
Further Queries:
Dr. Avdesh Sharma,
226/C-7, Safdarjung Development Area,
New Delhi – 110016
Ph. No. 011 – 26526243, 26564955