Depression Days

Just less than ten percent of the population of America suffers bouts of depression each year.  Depression is a serious illness, which affects daily living and disrupts family life.  This disorder takes control of the mind.  Functionally, it causes mood swings, sleeplessness, loss of appetite and a sense of deep despair.

As depression’s symptoms vary so does the severity over time.  Experts tell us that depression can be hereditary, stress or grave illness.  There are also other reasons for depression, such as alcohol, drugs, medicines, certain diseases or even mental illness.  Due to menopause, miscarriage, pregnancy, menstrual changes and hormonal changes women seem to have more depression than men do.

Common symptoms of depression are:

1. Feelings of sadness for a lengthy time for no apparent reason.
2. Negative thoughts toward things you used to enjoy
3. Thinking things are always your fault.
4. Loss of motivation, energy, and pleasure in simple activities.
5. Feelings of being inadequate; helplessness.
6. Problems concentrating or getting focused at work, or with daily routines.
7. Sleeping too much, or insomnia
8. Having restlessness and feelings of anxiety.
9. Physical pain with no sign of illness.
10. A desire to hurt yourself or suicidal inclinations.

Now understand, most people can experience feelings like these every once in a while.  If you or someone you know is experiencing more than two of these symptoms for an extended period of time, please talk to someone.  Sometimes just sharing your feelings can help.  Other times you will need to see a doctor for a true diagnosis and to get on the road to feeling better.

Another form of this disorder causes just the opposite in mood and behavior.

Common symptoms of Mania are:

1. An extreme feeling of happiness; euphoria
2. A very high opinion of self worth or abilities
3. Excessive talking, rapid speech
4. High energy level
5. Inability to sleep for very long
6. Reckless behavior like over spending, reckless driving or indiscriminate sex.
7. Short temper, irritability to distractions
8. Anxiety, racing thoughts

Having cycles of both set of these symptoms is Called Bipolar

Bipolar disorder has been sub categorized according to how often and how long each cycle lasts in a time period.  Bipolar can be so severe that all the symptoms are mixed together.  How exasperating and exhausting this could be.  Hospitalization may be required in some cases if daily functioning is impaired.

If you or someone you know is suspected of having depression, please seek the help of a medical doctor.  Do not live your life in despair.  Help is available.  Seek help today.

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