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Depression is a serious but common mood disorder that affects how you think, feel, and act. It can interfere with daily life functions and the ability to experience or even anticipate joy and happiness. Unlike normal sadness, it is persistent and constant, sometimes lasting for years. It is treatable with a proper diagnosis from a doctor. Here’s what you need to know.

What Everyone Should Know About Depression

What is the difference between depression and grief?

Grief is the sense of loss associated with relationships. People experiencing grief often have a loss of appetite and disturbed sleep, as well as feelings of guilt or low self-esteem. It is natural for these symptoms to continue for about two months after a loss and, while still present, should lessen within six months.

With depression, the symptoms are similar but more persistent. However, each case of depression is different. With atypical depression, for example, symptoms may be the opposite of what’s experienced with grief, such as overeating. Additionally, grief can be the driving force behind major depression cases. Either way, it’s important to get help from a doctor if you think you need it.

What are the common signs and symptoms of depression?

  • Depressed mood
  • Changes in appetite
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Loss of energy or increased fatigue
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
  • Restlessness or irritability
  • Inappropriate guilt
  • Difficulty thinking, making decisions, or concentrating
  • Feelings of anxiety
  • Feelings of helplessness, lack of hope or worth
  • Thoughts of death or attempts at suicide 

How is it diagnosed?

doctorA doctor will typically conduct a complete physical examination and interview and may order lab tests before diagnosing. This is because some medications and medical conditions can cause similar symptoms as depression. Once other medical conditions can be eliminated as the cause, your doctor can refer you to a mental health professional for diagnosis and treatment.

You can be diagnosed with depression if you experience at least five of the symptoms listed above for a period of at least two consecutive weeks. At least one of the five symptoms must be either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure.

How is depression treated?

The methods of treatment for depression vary depending on the patient. Often, the condition is treated with antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. Your mental health professional or doctor will develop a treatment based on your specific needs.

 

At Peninsula Community Health Services, they understand that your mental health is just as important as your body. Their psychiatric professionals and counselors can provide a variety of treatment options to help with depression, such as individual and group therapy. They also offer medical and dental services in addition to their behavioral health treatments. Give them a call at (907) 262-3119 or visit their website for more information on how they can help.

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