The symptoms of depression may include:
- Persistent sad and empty mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure
- Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
- Significant change in appetite or body weight
- Sleep disturbance (difficulty sleeping or oversleeping)
- Physical slowing or agitation
- Fatigue and loss of energy
- Impaired concentration and ability to think
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
In addition, depression may result in the following physical symptoms: headaches, other aches and pains, digestive problems and sexual problems.
Myth: Depression a sign of personal weakness; they should just "snap out of it."
Fact: One can not just "snap out" of having an illness. Without treatment, depression can last for several weeks to several months and can be deadly.
Myth: Depressed people are crazy.
Fact: With treatment individuals can return to their normal life. Only a small percentage of depressed people need institutional care.
Myth: Depression is normal; everyone gets the blues at times.
Fact: Clinical Depression is more than feeling "blue". It is a pervasive illness that can reduce one's ability to function.
Myth: Depression is a hopeless illness.
Fact: Individuals may have feelings of hopelessness, but treatment is effective.
Several factors can be involved in the development of Depression:
- Biochemical functioning - shortages or imbalances of mood-altering chemicals in the brain
- Genetic factors - one may have a biological vulnerability to depression
- Significant life stresses such as a serious loss, chronic illness, difficult relationship, financial problem or any unwelcome change can trigger an episode of depression
The onset of a depressive episode often results from a combination of genetic, psychological and environmental factors.
There are several highly effective treatments including:
- Medication - a variety of antidepressant medications are available to effectively treat chemical imbalances within the brain
- Psychotherapy - can help increase coping skills, identify/recognize warning signs, and provide individual & family education/support; you can have individual, group or family sessions
A typical treatment for depression includes the combination of medication and psychotherapy.
If you’ve tried two or more antidepressants and are still struggling with depression symptoms, MyMichigan Health can assist with our Treatment Resistant Depression programs.
If untreated, an individual may experience thoughts of committing suicide or even a suicide attempt.
Seek help if you are:
- Thinking about suicide
- Experiencing severe mood swings
- Having difficulty functioning at home, work, etc.
- Feeling out of control to handle yourself
Our specialists at our outpatient care programs collaborate to understand your needs and provide treatments to restore your well-being.
The HOPE Portal, powered by 211 Northeast Michigan, is a web-based resource connecting people to the help they need in a just a few clicks. Visit the HOPE Portal or call 211.
