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Health and wellness tips for your work, home and life— brought to you by the insurance specialists at Corporate Health Systems, Inc Mental Health: Depression Everyone occasionally has bouts of sadness, but these feelings are usually temporary. When a person has a depressive disorder, it interferes with daily life and normal functioning. It is a common but serious illness. There is no single known cause of depression, but it likely results from a combination of genetic, biochemical, environmental and psychological factors. Depression commonly coexists with other illnesses, such as anxiety disorders or substance abuse. It can affect anyone at any time, from children to older adults. Types of Depression There are several forms of depressive disorders, the most common being the first two listed below. • Major depressive disorder— characterized by a combination of symptoms that interfere with a person’s daily life, it is disabling and prevents a person from functioning normally • Dysthymic disorder—also called dysthymia, it is long-term (two years or longer) feelings of depression that are not extremely severe but still prevent a person from normal functions of daily life • Psychotic depression—occurs in conjunction with a form of psychosis, such as hallucinations or delusions • Postpartum depression—can occur within a year of giving birth. Symptoms include: sadness, lack of energy, trouble concentrating, anxiety, and feelings of guilt and worthlessness • Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)—characterized by the onset of depression during the winter months, when there is less natural sunlight Symptoms People with depressive illnesses do not all experience the same symptoms. The severity, frequency and duration will vary depending on the individual and the illness. Symptoms may include: • Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” feelings • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or hopelessness • Irritability, restlessness and/or fatigue • Loss of interest in activities once found pleasurable • A dramatic change in appetite • Insomnia • Thoughts of suicide Diagnosis and Treatment Depression is a highly treatable disorder. The first step is to visit a doctor, where he or she will perform a medical examination and rule out other factors that may be causing the condition, such as certain medications or a thyroid disorder. Once diagnosed, a person will likely be treated with psychotherapy and/or medication. In the meantime, it is important to exercise, participate in activities, spend time with friends and relatives, and think positively. It is also wise to postpone any major decisions, such as marriage or a career change, until feeling better. Helping Those Affected Knowing a depressed person can affect you too. The most important thing to do is to help the person get an appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Other ways to lend a hand: • Offer emotional support, understanding, patience and encouragement. • Be a good listener. • Never ignore comments about suicide; report them to the person’s relative(s) or doctor, or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273TALK. • Invite the person to do things with you; if he or she declines, keep trying, but don’t push. • Remind the person that with time and treatment, the depression will lift. For more information, visit the National Institute for Mental Health website at www.nimh.nih.gov. Did You Know...? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, by age 15, girls are twice as likely as boys to have experienced a major depressive episode. This brochure is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For further information, please consult a medical professional. © 2007-2010 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.