Depression and anxiety are what I call "silent killers". They hide in dark places, sucking the life out of a person until there is no life left. The Word of God says, "My people perish for lack of knowledge..." Hosea 4:6a. The more we know about the faces of this enemy, the more powerful we become in overcoming this condition.
DEPRESSION:
It's natural to feel down sometimes, but if that low mood lingers day after day, it could signal depression. Major depression is an episode of sadness or apathy that lasts at least two consecutive weeks and is severe enough to interrupt daily activities. Depression is not a sign of weakness or a negative personality. It is a major public health problem and a treatable medical condition.
Shown here is a PET scan revealing "hot spots" of increased activity in a non-depressed brain.
BODY PAIN:
Pain while depressed is known to wreak havoc on the emotions, it also takes a toll on the body. About 65% of patients report their depression is accompanied by pain. This may include headaches, back pain, tender muscles, and sore joints. Fatigue, dizziness and sleeping too much or too little are also common.
Shown here is a PET scan revealing "hot spots" of increased activity in a non-depressed brain.
BODY PAIN:
Pain while depressed is known to wreak havoc on the emotions, it also takes a toll on the body. About 65% of patients report their depression is accompanied by pain. This may include headaches, back pain, tender muscles, and sore joints. Fatigue, dizziness and sleeping too much or too little are also common.
CAUSES OF DEPRESSION:
Doctors aren't sure what causes depression, but a prominent theory is altered brain structure and chemical function. Chemicals called neurotransmitters become unbalanced. What pushes these chemicals off course? One possibility is the stress of a traumatic event, such as losing a loved one or a job. Other triggers could include certain medications, alcohol or substance abuse, hormonal changes, or even the weather.
MEDICATION:
Medications for depression change the levels of feel-good brain chemicals, such as serotonin. While Prozac may be the most well-known, it's only one of dozens of options. If the first medication tried doesn't help, there's a good chance one of the others will. Side effects tend to be mild, but may include upset stomach, headache, weight gain, insomnia, and sexual problems. The combination of talk therapy and medication appears particularly effective.
St. John's Wort for Depression:
St. John's Wort is an herbal remedy that has been the subject of extensive debate. There is some evidence that it can fight mild depression, but two large studies have shown it is ineffective against moderately severe major depression. Using St. John's wort with other antidepressants (SSRIs) may lead to the "serotonin syndrome," a life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, fever, sweating, rapid heart rate, and neuromuscular disturbances including rigidity or seizures.
MEDICATION:
Medications for depression change the levels of feel-good brain chemicals, such as serotonin. While Prozac may be the most well-known, it's only one of dozens of options. If the first medication tried doesn't help, there's a good chance one of the others will. Side effects tend to be mild, but may include upset stomach, headache, weight gain, insomnia, and sexual problems. The combination of talk therapy and medication appears particularly effective.
St. John's Wort for Depression:
St. John's Wort is an herbal remedy that has been the subject of extensive debate. There is some evidence that it can fight mild depression, but two large studies have shown it is ineffective against moderately severe major depression. Using St. John's wort with other antidepressants (SSRIs) may lead to the "serotonin syndrome," a life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, fever, sweating, rapid heart rate, and neuromuscular disturbances including rigidity or seizures.
SUICIDE WATCH:
People who are depressed are more likely to attempt suicide. Warning signs include talking about death or suicide, threatening to hurt people, or engaging in aggressive or risky behavior. Anyone who appears suicidal should be taken very seriously. Do not hesitate to call one of the suicide hot lines:
1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) and 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
If you have a plan to commit suicide, go to the emergency room for immediate treatment.
All information collected from
www.webmd.com
1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) and 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
If you have a plan to commit suicide, go to the emergency room for immediate treatment.
All information collected from
www.webmd.com
This site does not provide medical or any other health care advice, diagnosis or treatment
