depression.jpg On Saturday, Tina and I tackled the subject of depression in single moms on our Single Moms and More Blog Talk Radio show. Due to the overwhelming response we had (The chat room was packed, and we have a 15-page transcript to prove it.), I’ve decided to share some of our findings here, as well as post a link to the chat room discussion.

(Depression and the Single Mom chat room discussion: Click here.)

Disclaimer: I am NOT a medical professional. The information provided here is the result of my research on depression. It is not to be used to treat or diagnose the illness. If you feel like you could be depressed, seek the help of a trained medical professional.

Major Depression

Major depression is when a person has five or more symptoms of depression for at least 2 weeks. These symptoms include feeling sad, hopeless, worthless, or pessimistic. In addition, people with major depression often have behavior changes, such as new eating and sleeping patterns.

Symptoms

* Agitation, restlessness, and irritability
* Dramatic change in appetite, often with weight gain or loss
* Extreme difficulty concentrating
* Fatigue and lack of energy
* Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
* Feelings of worthlessness, self-hate, and inappropriate guilt
* Inactivity and withdrawal from usual activities, a loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed (such as sex)
* Thoughts of death or suicide
* Trouble sleeping or excessive sleeping

Causes

The exact cause of depression is not known. Many researchers believe it is caused by chemical imbalances in the brain, which may be hereditary or caused by events in a person’s life.

Some types of depression seem to run in families, but depression can also occur in people who have no family history of the illness. Stressful life changes or events can trigger depression in some people. Usually, a combination of factors is involved.

Men and women of all ages, races, and economic levels can have depression. It occurs more often in women.

Women are especially vulnerable to depression after giving birth. This is a result of hormonal and physical changes. Although new mothers commonly experience temporary “blues,” depression that lasts longer than 2 – 3 weeks is not normal and requires treatment.

Major depression can occur in children and teenagers, and they can also benefit from treatment.

Prognosis

The outcome is usually good with treatment. Although most depressive episodes can be effectively treated with either medication, psychotherapy, or both, depression is a recurring problem for many people. For people who have experienced repeated episodes of depression, maintenance treatment may be needed to prevent future recurrences.

Treatment

Psychotherapy
Hospitalization
Medications
Electroconvulsive Thereapy (ECT)
Self-help (support groups, family, books)
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)

Getting help

Family doctor
Mental health resources
Mental health specialist (psychiatrist/psychologist)
Hospital psyche dept.
Mental health program and medical schools
State hospital
Family services
Peer support group
Employee Assistance Program
Hotline: National Suicide Prevention: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Depression can be a taboo topic. But don’t be afraid or ashamed to get help. It is a treatable disorder.

Related posts:
1. Same-sex Domestic Abuse
2. Suffering in Silence: Why Kingdoms Fall
3. Suicide: We Must Deal With IT, or IT Will Keep Dealing With Us