Depression

Frequently Asked Questions

What is depression?

Depression is a mood disorder.

What causes depression?

• Depression can be caused by a variety of things.
• Hormones or a chemical imbalance are believed to cause some cases of depression.
• Depression also can be triggered by a life event, such as the death of a loved one or losing a job.
• Grief is not considered depression. However, grief can lead to depression or cause similar feelings.

Who can get depression?

• Depression can affect anyone at any time.
• Women are more likely than men to get depression.
• People with a family history of depression are more likely to get depression. However, not everyone with a family history of depression will get depression.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Most people feel sad or down every once in awhile. Feeling down is a common response to everyday stress. Feeling sad is cause for worry when sadness lasts a long time or keeps you from living your normal life. If you have four of more of these symptoms, you may be experiencing depression:

• avoiding the people and activities you used to enjoy.
• crying often, sometimes for no reason.
• feeling sad, lonely, guilty, or angry.
• changes in sleeping patterns. Sleeping too much or being unable to sleep even when you feel tired.
• changes in eating patterns. Gaining or losing a significant amount of weight.
• feeling tired. Loss of energy or motivation.
• having a hard time making decisions. Not being able to concentrate.
• having unexplained aches and pains.
• thoughts of death, suicide, or hurting yourself or someone else.

How is depression treated?

• Everyone's treatment is different.
• If you think you're depressed, you need the help of a doctor and loved ones.
• It's best to start treatment as soon as you realize you're depressed.
• A doctor can help you talk about your feelings and problems. This is called psychotherapy.
• A doctor may also recommend an antidepressant medication.
• Most treatment lasts a short time, usually a few weeks to a few months. For some people, treatment may last longer.

How can I help myself?

The following questions might help you and your doctor better understand your feelings of depression. Decreasing everyday stress might also help you feel better.

Ask yourself…

• How do I feel?
• How often do I feel this way?
• When do I usually feel this way?
• Why do I feel this way?
• What makes me happy?

Decrease stress

• Eat a good diet. Healthy food will give your body energy.
• Exercise. Exercise helps release stress.
• Talk to a friend or family member each day.
• Spend time with people who make you feel good.
• Set a goal (to exercise more, to learn a new skill, to try something new, etc.).
• Set aside time each day just for you. Relax or do something that you enjoy.
• Get regular check-ups. Tell your doctor how you feel.

When should I call the doctor?

• Call the doctor if you have thoughts of suicide or thoughts about hurting yourself or others. Call a friend if you don't want to call the doctor.
• Call the doctor if you think you are depressed.
• Call the doctor if you have four or more symptoms of depression.