TOPIC

Depression
 Depression

 Depression is a common and serious

medical illness that negatively affects
how you feel, the way you think and
how you act. Fortunately, it is also
treatable.
What causes Depression?
Family History

• Having family members who have

depression may increase a person’s
risk
• Deficiencies of certain chemicals in
the brain may lead to depression
 Major Life Changes

• Negative or
particularly stressful
events can trigger
depression.
Examples include
the death of a loved
one
• Major illnesses such as heart
attack, stroke or cancer may cause
depression.
 Certain medications used alone
or in combination can cause
side effects much like the
symptoms of depression.
 Use of Alcohol or other Drugs
can lead to depression.
Symptoms of Depression
 Vary from person to
person

 2 key signs are loss of

interest in things you
like to do, and sadness
Additional Signs include:
 Changes in feelings such as:
 Feeling empty
 Inability to enjoy anything
 Hopelessness
 Loss of warm feelings for family or
friends
 Feelings of self blame or guilt
 Loss of self esteem
Changes in behavior and
attitude
 These may include:
 General slowing down
 Neglect of responsibilities and
appearance
 Poor memory
 Inability to concentrate
 Suicidal thoughts and feelings
 Difficulty making decisions
Physical Complaints
 These may include:
 Sleep disturbances such as
insomnia, early morning waking,
or sleeping too much
 Lack of energy
 Loss of appetite
 Weight loss or gain
 Unexplained headaches or
backaches
 Stomachaches, indigestion or
changes in bowl habits
 Professional treatment is
helpful for all of depression.
Psychotherapy
 Counseling can help many
depressed people understand,
accept and feel better about
themselves.
For example:

 Interpersonal therapy works to change how

people how to accept self and relate to
others that affects mood and self-worth.
 Cognitive therapy helps people change
negative thinking, behavior patterns and
attitudes that affect self esteem and overall
sense of well being.
Medical Treatment for Depression
 Medication
 Antidepressants are an option (most often for
more severe cases) that can help ease the
symptoms of depression and return a person
to a better level of functioning.
If you or someone you know
has symptoms of
depression…

Take Action!
 See a medical doctor for a complete
check up.Some medical problems,
such as an under-functioning
thyroid,can cause depression.
 Go to the counseling center and talk with
a professional counselor.
 Talk things over with an understanding
friend, family member or student
services staff.
 Don’t expect too much of yourself until
your energy and mood improve
 Take a break
 Get some exercise
 Avoid extra stress
Things to do
 Reduce or eliminate the use of alcohol
or drugs
 Exercise or engage in some form of
physical activity
 Eat a proper, well-balanced diet
 Establish a regular sleep
pattern
 Obtain an adequate and consistent amount
of sleep—not too much, nor too little
 Seek emotional support from family and
friends
 Focus on meaningful, positive aspects of your
life
 Pace yourself, modify your schedule, and set
small, realistic goals
Things to Avoid
 Don’t make long-term commitments or
important decisions unless necessary while you
are feeling down
 Don’t assume things are hopeless
 Don’t assume responsibility for events which
are outside of your control
 Don’t avoid treatment-take some action to cope
 Don’t be critical of yourself; avoid critical others
Dealing with a depressed friend
 Be understanding
 Don’t try to “cheer up” a depressed
person—it can feel minimizing. Simply
ask if there is anything you can do to
help—the answer will often be “no,” but
the support will be felt.
 Avoid critical or shaming statements
Helping a depressed friend…

 Don’t argue about how bad things are or

are not
 Don’t react with anger even though your
efforts to help may be rejected
THANK YOU