Family Doctor 2007 - (Page 238) mind & body DEPRESSION always there for you… For more expert advice on this topic, make sure to visit familydoctor.org The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner depression will lift. Understanding depression Everyone feels down now and again. But if you can’t “just snap out of it,” and the sad mood persists, it’s time to see your family doctor. By Susanna E. Guzman What causes depression Depression seems to be related to a chemical imbalance in the brain that makes it hard for cells to communicate with one another. Depression can be triggered by stressful events, such as the death of someone you love, a divorce or job loss. But it can also come out of the blue. Certain medications, drugs and alcohol, or chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease, can cause depression. It also seems to run in families. I n any given year, nearly 10% of American adults will suffer from a depressive disorder. This category of mental disorders includes major depression — the condition that doctors are referring to Someone with major depression has some of the symptoms when they talk about depression. Talk with your doctor Your doctor can’t guess that you’re depressed just by looking at you, so you need to tell him or her how you’re feeling. The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner the depression will lift. Your doctor may ask you some questions about your symptoms, your health and your family history of health problems. He or she may also give you a physical exam and do some tests. listed in the box on the next page nearly every day, all day, for 2 weeks or longer. If you’re depressed, you may also have headaches, other aches and pains, digestive problems or problems with sex. Older people who are depressed may also feel confused or have trouble understanding simple requests. 238 familydoctor 2007 http://familydoctor.org
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