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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
What is depression?
Depression is a medical condition that causes feelings of sadness or hopelessness that do not go away. Depression may cause you to lose interest in things you used to enjoy. These feelings may interfere with your daily life.
What causes or increases my risk for depression?
Depression may be caused by changes in brain chemicals that affect your mood. Your risk for depression may be higher if you have any of the following:
- Stressful events such as the death of a loved one, unemployment, childhood trauma, divorce, or domestic abuse
- A chronic medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or cancer
- Parents, siblings, or other family members with a history of depression
- Drug or alcohol abuse
What are the signs and symptoms of depression?
- Appetite changes, or weight gain or loss
- Trouble going to sleep or staying asleep, or sleeping too much
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Feeling restless, irritable, or withdrawn
- Feeling worthless, hopeless, discouraged, or guilty
- Trouble concentrating, remembering things, doing daily tasks, or making decisions
- Thoughts about hurting or killing yourself
How is depression diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and how long you have had them. He or she will ask if you have any family members with depression. Tell your healthcare provider about any stressful events in your life. He or she may ask about any other health conditions or medicines you take.
How is depression treated?
- Therapy may be used to treat your depression. A therapist will help you learn to cope with your thoughts and feelings. This can be done alone or in a group. It may also be done with family members or a significant other.
- Antidepressant medicine may be given to improve or balance your mood. You may need to take this medicine for several weeks before you begin to feel better. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effects or problems you have with your medicine. The type or amount of medicine may need to be changed.
How can I manage depression?
- Get regular physical activity. Try to exercise for 30 minutes, 3 to 5 days a week. Work with your healthcare provider to develop an exercise plan that you enjoy. Physical activity may improve your symptoms.
- Get enough sleep. Create a routine to help you relax before bed. You can listen to music, read, or do yoga. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Sleep is important for emotional health.
- Eat a variety of healthy foods from all of the food groups. A healthy meal plan is low in fat, salt, and added sugar. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about a meal plan that is right for you.
- Do not drink alcohol or use drugs. Alcohol and drugs can make your symptoms worse.
Call 911 for any of the following:
- You think about harming yourself or someone else.
When should I contact my healthcare provider?
- Your symptoms do not improve.
- You cannot make it to your next appointment.
- You have new symptoms.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Care AgreementYou have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
© 2017 Truven Health Analytics Inc. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes. All illustrations and images included in CareNotes® are the copyrighted property of A.D.A.M., Inc. or Truven Health Analytics.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.