Depression

What is depression?

Depression is not just "feeling sad." It's a real medical condition that can be successfully treated. Depression affects almost 10% of the population at any one time. Unfortunately, the majority of those who suffer from depression do not get help.

• Depression is not about who you are, it's about how you feel.
• Depression can be caused by many things including medications, stress, a lack of exercise or even surgery.
• Depression can be effectively treated. You should keep asking for help until you find a solution that works for you.
• Treatment helps 4 out of 5 people recover from depression.
  

Signs & symptoms

Only a doctor can determine if you have depression. Despite advances in diagnosing the condition, it is often overlooked because people don't talk about their feelings or mood changes. It's important to talk honestly about your mood just as you would talk about any other health concern. Here are some questions to help you evaluate your own situation:

• Have you been feeling sad or nervous for a while?
• Do you feel gloomy or "out of it"?
• Have you lost interest in hobbies or things you like to do?
• Is it harder than usual to concentrate, remember things or make a decision?
•  Do you stay awake longer or oversleep more often than usual?
• Has your appetite changed? Your weight?
• Do people tell you that you're irritable or you're not paying enough attention?
• Do you often think about death or suicide?

If you answered "yes" to more than half of these questions, or if you have frequent thoughts about death or suicide, tell your doctor. You also can take our online Depression Evaluation for more information and to help you decide whether to seek treatment.

Who's at risk?

Many factors can play a role in depression. Some people might have many contributing causes while others have just one. Still others seem to develop depression for no apparent reason. Some risk factors:

• Abnormalities in brain chemicals called "neurotransmitters."
• Low self-esteem, inability to handle stress or an overall pessimistic view of life
• History of depression in the family
• Illness such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease or hormonal disorders
• Medication side effects
• Gender. Women experience almost twice as much depression as men.
• Difficult life events like the death of a loved one or financial problems

Professional help

Treatment for depression varies and may include the following:

• You may have to change your diet, change the medications you are taking or exercise more often.
• You may have to take a medication called an antidepressant.
• You might be encouraged to begin talk therapy.

While treatment is usually effective, it may take time to find what works for you. Fortunately, more than 80% of people with depression find ways to reduce or eliminate the condition and its symptoms.

Priority Health members can check here for information on getting mental health assistance.

What you can do

If you have concerns about someone you know who shows signs of being depressed, encourage him or her to talk to a doctor or mental health professional about what they're feeling. It also helps to become more knowledgeable about depression and its effects. Read more about depression:

• In women
• In men
• In the elderly
• In children & teens
• Bipolar disorder
  
• Healthwise - Postpartum Depression
  Postpartum depression is a serious illness that can occur in the first few months after childbirth. It also can happen after miscarriage and stillbirth.

Talk with a case manager

If you need extra help - perhaps because you are dealing with additional health risks - a Priority Health case manager will help you:

• By sending you educational materials
• Work with your doctor if necessary
• Answer questions and offer support
  Contact a case manager now.