Depression

Helpful Links

Psychology information online – Depression
Depression.mentalhelp.net
Online Depression Screening
Depression

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders, affecting 340 million people in the world. One in four women and one in ten men will experience depression during their lifetimes. Depression can occur at any age but has an average age onset in the mid 20s. Depression can range from mild, moderate, to severe and up to 50% of individuals with a single episode of depression can experience a second episode. In order for a formal diagnosis to be made, the symptoms of depression must be present persistently for more than two weeks. People may experience a few symptoms of depression for short periods of time that do not necessarily meet the criteria for clinical depression.

Symptoms of Depression Include:

A persistent feeling of sadness, anxiety or emptiness
Changes in sleep habits, i.e. Insomnia or sleeping too much (hypersomnia)
Changes in eating habits, i.e. overeating or lack of appetite with significant weight changes.
Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities (schoolwork, hobbies, etc.)
Decreased energy and feeling fatigued
Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts
Physical symptoms can include headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Some people will have reactions to a lack of exposure to daylight. Symptoms are similar to those of depression and typically occur during winter months when exposure to daylight is limited.

Treatment

Treatment for depression can include individual counseling, antidepressant medications, herbal remedies, and etc (eltroconvulsive therapy). For those individuals diagnosed with SAD, treatment may include more exposure to certain wavelengths of light.

Strategies for self-help include: eating nutritious well balanced meals; getting adequate rest and regular exercise; continuing to maintain your schedule and going to classes, meetings, engaging in hobbies; getting support from your natural support system of friends, family, minister, etc.; finding out more about depression from the various books and tapes available in bookstores or libraries. It is important to talk with a professional when the depression symptoms are interfering with your ability to function in life. If you experience thoughts of death or suicide, seek assistance immediately through crisis hotlines and mental health professionals.

Local Support Groups

Memphis Depressive and Manic Depressive Association – Contact Leah Anne Kelly at 382-5483.
Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 7:00 – 9:00 PM at Charter Lakeside Adult Bldg. 2911 Brunswick Rd. Group Room #1.

Books Available at the Counseling Center

Manic-Depressive Illness by Goodwin and Jamison