Wendel Abel - I AM WHAT I THINKSTACEY HAS been feeling sad for the past three months. "I don't know what has come upon me. I feel I am carrying around a heavy load. My family complains that I have become irritable," she said.
Andy just retired. He had not planned for retirement. He has difficulty sleeping at nights. "I have great difficulty falling asleep. When I do sleep, I wake up early in the mornings. I have lost my appetite and I have no energy," he reported.
Lina was in constant tears. "I am so unhappy. I cry all the time. I have no energy and nothing seems to please me. I don't enjoy going to church. I don't enjoy reading my Bible. I don't know what is wrong with me," she sobbed.
"Everything has been going well in my life," commented Cheryl. "For some reason I have been very sad. I get no pleasure out of life. My marriage is in problems as my husband says I have gotten miserable and I have absolutely no desire for sex. I feel so worthless."
Another person comments, "ever since I had my baby, I have been feeling depressed. I don't have the energy to take care of the baby. Whenever the baby cries I feel like slapping her. Last night I did. I feel so bad. I want to die."
And yet another person comments, "I sleep constantly and eat a lot. The eating makes me feel better. I am so depressed that I feel there is no point living. Last week I took a knife to my throat but when I thought of my family. I had to put it down. I am very depressed. I want to die."
These are the many voices of persons who are suffering from depression. You are not alone if you also have some of these symptoms.
WHAT IS DEPRESSION?
Depression is a common medical illness. Research has shown that depression is due to a decrease in the brain chemicals. The exact cause of the condition is unknown but the illness may pass on genetically through families. Other factors that can influence the brain chemicals and cause depression are other medical illnesses such as diabetes and cancer. In addition, commonly prescribed medication, stress, substance abuse and hormonal changes in the body may lead to depression.
WHO IS AFFECTED?
Like these individuals. You are not alone. Depression is a common medical condition. It is more common in women than men and affects one in five females and about one in 10 males. In addition, it affects all races, social classes and all ages. A significant number of persons who visit their family doctor do so because of this common disorder.
CAN DEPRESSION BE TREATED?
Yes it can be treated. Depression is a treatable condition. Today we have more effective treatment available. Seeking treatment early in the course of the illness is important as this prevents the illness from becoming severe and longstanding. Early and appropriate treatment will prevent many of the consequences of depression such as substance abuse and suicide.
WHAT TREATMENTS
ARE AVAILABLE?
Most persons can be treated with a combination of medication and therapy. Therapy alone may work only in cases of mild depression but persons with a severe form of the disorder will need medication.
WHAT MEDICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE?
In recent years a lot of newer medication has become available. These include effexor, parotine, fluoxetine, sertraline and wellbutrin. These drugs have fewer side effects and are more effective in treating the symptoms of depression. They are not addictive but you may have to commit yourself to taking medication for at least six to nine months. It is important that you discuss with your doctor the best treatment option for you as what works for someone else may not work for you.
DOES ALTERNATIVE THERAPY WORK?
A wide host of other treatment helps but these should be discussed with your doctor.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO DO
If you (or someone you know) are suffering from depression, consult your doctor immediately. Lifestyle changes will also help in your recovery. Paying attention to your nutrition and ensuring that you put aside adequate time for rest and relaxation helps.
Dr. Abel will answer all your questions on depression in his next article. Please send your questions and comments to him at email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com or Your Health, c/o The Gleaner, 7 North Street, Kingston.
Dr. Wendel Abel is a Consultant Psychiatrist and Senior Lecturer, University of the West Indies.
