Depression
Depression is very commonplace nowadays.
It's a psychological problem usually caused by an imbalance of brain
chemicals, along with other factors. It affects nearly everyone
of us through either personal experience or through depression in
a family member. According to survey, every year over 17 million
American adults experience a period of clinical depression. The
cost associated with this mental suffering cannot be estimated.
The worst part about depression
is that it can interfere with our normal functioning, leading to
frequent problems associated with work, social and family adjustment.
It causes pain and suffering not only to those who have a disorder,
but also to those who care about them. Severe form of depression
can be disastrous as it can destroy family life as well as the life
of the depressed person.
Negative Impact of Depression:
- It causes tremendous emotional pain which leads
to a troubled life,
- Adversely affects the lives of families and friends
as it becomes difficult for them to cope with the situation,
- Reduces work productivity and absenteeism as their
mental condition hampers their skills pertaining to work,
- Has a significant negative impact on the economy,
costing an estimated $44 billion a year.
Diagnostic Evaluation
The first step towards getting
appropriate treatment for depression or any emotional problem is
a complete psychological evaluation to determine whether you have
a depressive illness, and if so, what type of depression. Consultation
with a psychologist will include a review of your physical health
history, some medications as well as some medical conditions which
can cause symptoms of depression. So your psychologist will ask
your family physician to rule out these possibilities if other physical
symptoms are evident.
Depression can affect anyone
irrespective of caste and creed. Once identified, most people diagnosed
with depression are successfully treated. Unfortunately, depression
is not always diagnosed, because many of the symptoms mimic physical
illness, such as sleep and appetite disturbances. Recognizing depression
is the first step in treating it. With proper treatment, nearly
80% of those with depression can make significant improvement in
their mood and life adjustment therefore, like any serious medical
condition; depression needs to be treated for the benefit of human
race.
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