Situational depression

General or Other | - Others | Situational depression (Disease)


Description

Depression is a medical illness that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Depression can cause physical symptoms, too. Depression is a chronic illness that usually requires long-term treatment, like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Causes and Risk factors

Its not known exactly what causes depression. As with many mental illnesses, it appears a variety of factors may be involved. These include: biological differences, neurotransmitters, hormones, inherited traits, life events.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Because depression is common and often goes undiagnosed, some doctors and health care providers may ask questions about the mood and thoughts during routine medical visits. They may even ask to fill out a brief questionnaire to help check for depression symptoms.

Numerous depression treatments are available. Medications and psychological counseling (psychotherapy) are very effective for most people.

In some cases, a primary care doctor can prescribe medications to relieve depression symptoms. However, many people need to see a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions (psychiatrist). Many people with depression also benefit from seeing a psychologist or other mental health counselor. Usually the most effective treatment for depression is a combination of medication and psychotherapy. ...