Depression comes in different forms, just as is the case with other illnesses
such as heart disease and diabetes. Major depression is manifested by
a combination of symptoms that interfere with the ability to work, study,
sleep, eat and feel joy in every day life. A less severe type of depression,
dysthymia involves long-term, chronic symptoms that do not disable, but
keep one from functioning well or from feeling good. Many people with
dysthymia also experience major depressive episodes at some time in their
lives.
Another type of depression is bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive
illness. This form of illness is characterized by cycling mood changes:
severe high (mania) and lows (depression). Sometimes the mood changes
are dramatic and rapid, but most often they are gradual. When in the depressed
cycle, one can have any or all of the symptoms of a depressive disorder.
When in the manic cycle, one may be overactive, over-talkative, and have
a great deal of energy. Mania often affects thinking, judgment and social
behavior in ways that cause serious problems and embarrassment. For example,
the individual in a manic phase may feel elated, full of grand schemes
that might range from unwise business decisions to romantic sprees. Mania,
left untreated, may worsen to a psychotic state.
Medical research has shown that some types of depression run in families,
suggesting that a biological vulnerability can be inherited. In some families,
major depression also seems to occur generation after generation. However,
it can also occur in people who have no family history of depression.
Whether inherited or not, research has proven that depressive disorders
are associated with changes in brain structures or brain function.
People who have low self-esteem, who do not develop the skills to recognize
and express feelings, people who encounter various traumas such as rape
or the death of a loved one, people who consistently view themselves and
the world with pessimism or who are readily overwhelmed by stress, are
prone to depression. Alcoholics and addicts often experience depression
and use substances to self-medicate. When alcoholics and addicts decide
to get clean and sober, they often experience depression during the first
year or two of their recovery while their brain chemistry returns to normal
function.
Depression is treatable. The first step to getting appropriate treatment
for depression is a physical examination by a physician or psychiatrist.
Treatment choice will depend on the outcome of the evaluation. In addition
to prescription drug treatment, depression can be successfully treated
with hypnotherapy and other holistic methods such as nutritional support
and acupuncture.
