Depressive Disorder is a common condition. It affects 1 in 7 people in Australia. It is more than just feeling sad. It involves a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in life, for a sustained period of time. It can affect all aspects of life, including relationships, as well as impacting work or school.
Depression can affect anyone. However, environmental risk factors include stressful or traumatic life events, bereavement, unemployment or abuse. A recent diagnosis of a serious health issue is also a common cause of depression. We also know that there is a genetic predisposition to depressive disorder, which means you are at risk if there are other family members with depressive disorder.Brain biochemistry and personality types are also more at risk of developing depression.
What are the symptoms?
You might feel sad, irritable or empty. You might not enjoy things you used to. To diagnose depression, these intense feelings are long lasting, for at least two weeks according to diagnostic criteria.
Other symptoms can include: feeling tearful, lacking motivation, always feeling tired, but having disrupted sleep, changes in appetite and weight, thoughts about dying.
What do you do if you think this describes you?
Get help. Speak to someone. This might be a family member, or a friend or colleague at work.
Talk with your doctor. Mental health is one of the most common presentations in general practice. So I guarantee your doctor will be a good source of support.
The severity of the disorder needs to be assessed. Are you still able to work, and dress yourself? Are you able to get up out of bed? Are you safe? Do you have intense suicidal thoughts or a plan? Safety is the most important thing. Depressive disorder is a treatable condition, so it is paramount that we keep a person safe until we can get support in place.
The research tells us that there are a few key strategies to improve depressive disorder. Firstly, self care. This mean eating well, exercising regularly, and sleeping 7-9 hours per day. Plus doing anything else that you used to enjoy.
Secondly, connect. Reach out to friends or family. Surround yourself with people. Join a support group.
Your health practitioner will talk to you about other proven strategies to manage your depressive disorder, including psychological therapy, and when needed, medication.
Good sites for further information include beyondblue.org.au, healthdirect.gov,au, blackdoginstitute.org.au,
These sites are government regulated, which means there is no promotional material or ulterior motive from someone trying to sell you something.
If you are feeling acutely distressed or suicidal, contact lifeline on 13 11 14
Dr Nicole Chater is a Sydney based GP who specialises in holistic health and self care.
Please note that all information discussed is for health information only and does not replace individual advice. For any health related concern, please speak with your doctor.
Comentários