Depression- Part II

Last week I began a discussion of clinical depression by noting the quotations of notable persons who have suffered from clinical depression. Let me elaborate today on this topic.

Clinical depression is different from emotional let down due to fatigue, disappointment, sadness, or being down in the dumps. In fact, transitory feelings of sadness or discouragement are perfectly normal, especially during particularly difficult times. What then is clinical depression?

Symptoms of clinical depression may include:

Chronic fatigue despite adequate rest.
Sleep difficulties including insomnia, the need for increased sleep, early morning awakening or problems remaining asleep.
Chronic sadness, crying spells and mood swings.
Diminished interest in sex.
Tension headaches, backaches or other aches and pains without a medical explanation.
Lack of enthusiasm or enjoyment in things that were formally of interest.
Impaired concentration, slowed thinking, inability make decisions and get things done.
Increased or decreased appetite.
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and believing that life may not be worth living.
Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, attempts or plans to end one’s life.

Left untreated, prolonged depression often leads to physical illness as the body's ability to repair itself and fight infection becomes impaired. The depressed individual frequently suffers from impaired judgment and decision making in relationships, business and financial matters. As the depression lifts, these same individuals often look back with regret at certain points in their life and wonder how things might have been different without the impairment of depression.

Other factors leading to clinical depression may include:

Poor self-esteem, an unhappy childhood and adolescence, being in abusive relationships, alcohol and drug abuse, a family history of depression, and certain medical conditions all correlate with depression.

Ineffective, unhealthy and unsuccessful movement through the grieving process, such as after loss through death, can lead to prolonged periods of depression, bereavement and morning, even after the normal bereavement process should have been completed.

Feelings of entrapment, such as in a job or relationship, can lead to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, two conditions frequently felt by those suffering from depression.

Don't be ashamed or embarrassed to admit that you may be depressed and need help. Depression should not be viewed as a weakness or character defect. Consult with a professional trained to diagnose and treat depression as depression can be treated very successfully. Remember, the earlier the intervention, the better the prognosis for a speedy recovery.

Copyright © 2005 Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D.