Depression is a mental disorder that manifests itself through symptoms like depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, low energy, and poor concentration. In a severe case of depression, the individual suffering from depression may resort to committing suicide. These problems can become chronic or recurrent and lead to substantial impairments in an individual’s ability to take care of his or her everyday responsibilities.

There are two kinds of this illness: Major depression, or dysthymia which affects mood; and Manic depression or bipolar illness, when feeling low and depressed alternates with recklessness.

There should never be any embarrassment or apprehension when coping with depression. The first thing you should do if you suspect that you may be depressed is visit your family doctor for a thorough checkup. It is preferable to visit your family doctor as he will be aware of your previous medical conditions and medical history. If you are unable to or if you are embarrassed to visit your family doctor, any other general physician will serve the same purpose.

An individual should be absolutely sure by before taking any kind of medication and self medicating since some other medical conditions can cause depression symptoms, such as vitamin and mineral deficiencies, female hormonal changes and thyroid conditions.

The doctor you visit, family doctor or any other physician, will begin the diagnostic process by asking you a series of questions. Questions that you may be asked include:

What are the signs you’ve been experiencing?

How long have you had these symptoms?

How severe are your symptoms?

Have you felt like this before?

Have you been prescribed any medication for depression before?

If yes, what treatment was given and which worked the best?

Do any of your family members suffer from depression?

If so, were your relatives treated for depression and of the treatments given to them, which worked best?

Do you consume alcohol or take drugs?

Have you had any thoughts of death or suicide?

There is no laboratory test that can diagnose depression. Depression is diagnosed based on the person’s reported symptoms, signs that your doctor observes during the questioning process, your medical history and your family’s medical history. Depression occurs in persons of all genders, ages, and backgrounds.

It is very important that the family be supportive through this difficult time. The family needs to extend their love and affection and most importantly their support towards the person suffering from depression.

Facts relating to depression :

Depression is common, affecting about 121 million people worldwide.

Depression is amongst the top causes of disability worldwide.

Depression can be reliably diagnosed and treated in primary care.

Fewer than 25 % of those suffering from depression have access to treatment.

In conclusion, depression like most illnesses can be cured, only if it is detected in time and is treated. Family plays an important role in the treatment.

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