Symptoms Of Depression Quiz, Victory Over Depression
Q: Cause
The cause of depression is the subject of intense study. Experts
believe genetic traits, along with stressful events, illness,
medications, or other factors, can lead to an imbalance of certain
brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, causing depression.
A:Conditions that may trigger an episode of depression include:
· A few medications, such as some blood pressure medicines. Once the
medication is stopped, the depressive symptoms usually disappear.
· Problems with some hormones, such as imbalances in the thyroid or
adrenal glands.
· Chemical imbalances, such as imbalances in blood calcium levels or
low iron levels (anemia)
· Long-term (chronic) diseases, such as arthritis and heart deseases,
or cancer.
· Infections, such as viral deseases or infections in the liver or
brain.
· Social stressors, such as the death of a loved one.
· Chronic stressors, such as living in poverty, having family
difficulties, or having serious medical problems or living with someone
who does. Older adults who move from an independent lifestyle to one
that is more dependent upon others often experience depression. .
· Drinking alcohol, using illegal drugs, or having a substance abuse
problem. .
· Other conditions, such as menopause or chronic pain, stress, or
fatigue.
Symptoms
If you have depression, you may feel hopeless and sad or stop feeling
pleasure from almost everything you do. You may feel "down in the
dumps," tearful, or discouraged. You may also be irritable or anxious
or have low energy levels. The symptoms of depression are often subtle
at first. It can be hard to recognize that symptoms may be connected
and that you might have depression.
The two most significant symptoms of depression are:
Sadness or hopelessness.