Mental Health and Depression
by LTC Eugenia W. Messick

Everyone gets the blues now and then, but depression may be the cause if a feeling of sadness or loss of interest in life and friends lingers for a few weeks or more.

Depression is a common disorder that affects 1 in 20 Americans. There are several signs and symptoms of depression. The following list can help you determine if you or someone you know is depressed:

• Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities
• Feeling sad, blue, or down in the dumps
• Fatigue and lack of energy
• Sleep problems, including waking up very early in the morning
• Change in eating habits that result in weight loss or gain
• Frequent crying
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Belief that the future looks grim; feeling guilty, helpless, or worthless
• Irritability
• Thoughts of death or suicide, a suicide attempt
• Being anxious, pessimistic, or worried.

If you believe someone you know is depressed, strongly encourage him or her to seek treatment. Depression can interfere with a person's ability or wish to get help, because it makes them feel worthless and hopeless.

Depression is the most treatable mental illness; most people who suffer from it can be treated successfully. Treatment reduces pain and suffering and returns the person to normal functioning. Most people receiving treatment for depression will begin to feel better in 2-4 weeks.

The usual treatment consists of medication(s) and/or psychotherapy. Psychotherapy helps you deal with major life changes, emotions, perceptions, and personal problems associated with depression. Anti-depressant medications help by improving mood, sleep, appetite, and concentration by changing the chemical balance in the brain.

Warning Signs of Mental Illness

• Confused thinking
• Prolonged depression, sadness, or irritability
• Feeling extreme highs and lows
• Excessive fears, worries, and anxieties
• Social withdrawal
• Dramatic changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Strong feelings of anger
• Delusions or hallucinations
• Growing inability to cope with daily problems
• Suicidal thoughts
• Denial of obvious problems
• Numerous unexplained physical ailments

Other Depression Resources on HOOAH 4 HEALTH:

Depression Resources

Suicide Resources