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DEPRESSION
What is depression?
Depression is a condition in which a person may feel like s/he feels no energy and just
cannot concentrate. Or, the person can feel irritable all the time with no explanation as to
why. Symptoms can also vary from person to person but many are common to all; thus,
it is important for all of us to heed the warning signs when the person(s) suffering cannot.
A person is said to be clinically depressed when the person feels “down” for more than
two weeks especially when the feelings interfere with daily life. Depression is a treatable
illness and responds well to treatment by a professional but the warning signs must not be
ignored.
What are the symptoms of depression?
The symptoms that help a doctor identify depression include:
 constant feelings of sadness, irritability, or tension
 decreased interest or pleasure in usual activities or hobbies
 loss of energy, feeling tired despite lack of activity
 a change in appetite, with significant weight loss or weight gain
 a change in sleeping patterns, such as difficulty sleeping, early morning awakening,
or sleeping too much
 restlessness or feeling slowed down
 decreased ability to make decisions or concentrate
 feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or guilt
 thoughts of suicide or death
What causes depression?
Depression is thought to be caused by a combination of things. Often a person does not
know why depression has struck them and it is NOT just a state of mind. Depression
manifests itself in physical changes in the brain and in an imbalance in the type of
chemicals, or neurotransmitters, in the body especially brain and nerves.
Some of the more common factors involved in depression are:

Family history. Genetics play an important part in depression. It can run in families
for generations.

Trauma and stress. Things like financial problems, the breakup of a relationship, or
the death of a loved one can bring on depression. You can become depressed after
changes in your life, like starting a new job, graduating from school, or getting
married.

Pessimistic personality. People who have low self-esteem and a negative outlook are
at higher risk of becoming depressed. These traits may actually be caused by lowlevel depression (called dysthymia).

Physical conditions. Serious medical conditions like heart disease, cancer, and HIV
can contribute to depression, partly because of the physical weakness and stress they
bring on. Depression can make medical conditions worse, since it weakens the
immune system and can make pain harder to bear. In some cases, depression can be
caused by medications used to treat medical conditions.

Other psychological disorders. Anxiety disorders, eating disorders, schizophrenia,
and (especially) substance abuse often appear along with depression.
How is depression treated?
Medication and psychotherapy, or “talk therapy” are the standard treatments for
depression (i.e. conventional medicine).
Premier Massage Comment: Massage can be highly beneficial for those who suffer
from depression. Studies have shown both chemical and electrophysiological changes
from a negative to a positive mood were noted and may underline the decrease in
depression after massage. Since the positive effects of massage are cumulative, making
massage a regular part of keeping healthy will undoubtedly help reduce the symptoms of
depression. As with pain, keeping depression from becoming chronic is the best
approach to recovery. Additionally, the Mayo Clinic has found exercise to benefit such
psychological conditions as depression and anxiety (among others). Premier Massage
personal fitness training may benefit such conditions. If you or anyone you know suffers
with depression (or anxiety, etc.), please visit Premier Massage services. Please write to
[email protected], or call 903-445-7679 with questions.
References: Source of benefits of massage therapy for depression:
Salvo, Susan G.: Massage Therapy: Principles and Practice, ed 2, Elsevier Science 2003,
Saunders
Source of explanation and conventional treatment of depression: www.depression.com
Source of benefits of exercise for depression:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/print/depression-and-exercise/MH00043/METHOD=print