| SolveYourProblem
Article Series: Depression
I'm Depressed. It Sucks. Help Me.
What
Are The Symptoms of Major Depression?
You may be suffering from major depression
if some of the many symptoms last for at least two weeks. Some
of these symptoms include thoughts of death or suicide, sleeping
too much (or not enough), lethargy, difficulty concentrating,
appetite fluctuations and withdrawal from life. You may have
feelings of extreme anger, become discouraged, guilty or even
delusional.
Antidepressants are often used to fight symptoms of major
depression, but more often than not, the medication should
be used in conjunction with psychotherapy sessions rather than
alone. Keep in mind that antidepressants used to treat young
adults sometimes trigger suicidal thoughts and behavior, so
they should be used with extreme caution and under the supervision
of a health care provider.
If psychotic symptoms are part of your bout with major depression,
lithium and thyroid supplements might be prescribed to further
promote the effectiveness of antidepressant medications. If
symptoms of major depression, especially thoughts of suicide,
aren’t relieved by any of these methods, a physician might
suggest ECT (Electroconvulsive therapy). This type of treatment
uses electric current to cause a seizure and relieve scattered
thoughts.
Doctors may also recommend a less harsh form of treatment
than ECT, called TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation). This
method alters brain function, but with fewer side effects than
ECT. Light therapy has also been used effectively to combat
symptoms of major depression. Winter months that offer a small
amount of sunlight are especially difficult for major depression
patients and light therapy can help them regain normal sleeping
habits, lessening that symptom of major depression.
Sufferers of major depression symptoms should keep in mind
that a healthy lifestyle also helps them feel better and improves
their thought processes. Alcohol and drugs should be avoided
as should fatty foods. Eating healthy, balanced meals and exercising
on a daily basis can also go a long way in relieving symptoms
of major depression.
Alternative methods of treating symptoms of major depression
include herbal remedies, acupuncture and meditation techniques.
Be sure and tell your physician if you’re using any type of
natural or alternative methods for treating your major depression
as some of these methods might have harmful side effects if
used with prescription antidepressants.
No one knows exactly what causes major depression, but one
theory is that chemical imbalances in the brain could trigger
symptoms. Hereditary, traumatic or sad events in one’s life
could also be causes of major depression.
The good news is that major depression can usually be treated
with a good outcome. There’s no reason to suffer from these
recurring episodes, so research your options and get some relief.
Click here to learn exactly how to eliminate your depression and experience relief and happiness. Stop struggling and put yourself on a better path in life today. It's my SolveYourProblem recommendation. Also, here is a complimentary guide to get you started (PDF format).
# # # # #
by SolveYourProblem.com
: 2010
> Home > Depression
Articles : Main Page
|
