Doctors Corner

Depression

Life can be full of wonder and opportunities for most people, but it is estimated that 1 out of 4 of us will have a significant problem with depression during our life. Or another way to express how common depression occurs, more than 1 out of 10 of us will have depression this year. No doubt, most of us still think of depression as "all in our head" rather than a physical illness. The majority of time, however, clinical depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain that can occur for no obvious reason. The "blues" that happens with a death in the family, financial stresses, family problems, or other life events generally will improve in time or as our situations change. True depression might be triggered by these types of events in some people, but does not improve with time. How do you recognize depression? Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue and lack of energy
• Changes of sleep patterns: insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Lack of pleasure from usual activities
• Withdraw from people
• Agitated, irritable, restless, and difficulty concentrating
• Changes in weight or appetite
• Feeling worthless, hopeless, or helpless
• Thoughts of suicide

True depression requires help. Depending upon the severity, life style changes, professional counseling, or drug therapy may be required. If you or a loved one have any of the above symptoms, don't delay and ask for help. In the case of life stresses and the "blues", the below good health habits can help:

• Avoid drugs and excessive alcohol, eat well, and get adequate sleep
• Keep physically active on a daily basis for a goal of over 30 minutes a day
• Maintain good relationships with family and friends, and spend adequate time sharing and helping others
• Keep your mind active with new ideas and challenges, push yourself to be involved in activities and groups
• Consider prayer, meditation, biofeedback, yoga, or other relaxation techniques

Remember, we are all in this journey together!

Kerry Randolph MD
Medical Director, CoxHealth Plans


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