October 2005

Recognizing Depression

In any given one-year period, 9.5 percent of the population, or about 18.8 million American adults, suffer from depression. The economic cost for this disorder is estimated to be very high. The cost in human suffering, however, simply can't be estimated. Depression often interferes with normal functioning. It causes pain and suffering not only to those who have a disorder, but also to those who care about them. Serious depression can destroy family life as well as the life of the ill person. But much of this suffering is unnecessary.

Treatment for depression is usually very effective. Unfortunately, many people either don't know they are depressed or don't seek treatment. If you feel that you or someone you care about is one of the many undiagnosed people in this country, the information presented here may help you take the steps that may save your own or someone else's life.

If you are concerned that you, or someone you care about, may be depressed – or if you have questions about depression – one of the best things you can do is to get in touch with ValueOptions. You can always reach a counselor by calling 1-800-997-4841.

Women and Depression

Depression in women is more likely to:
  • Occur earlier, last longer, be more likely to recur, be associated with stressful life events and be more sensitve to seasonal changes.
  • Be associated with anxiety disorders such as panic, phobic symptoms and eating disorders.
  • Not be associated with drug and alcohol abuse.
Some women may also experience postpartum depression, occurring after childbirth. As with all depression, it's crucial that symptoms are reported to a health professional and not just attributed to a bout of the "baby blues."


What Are Symptoms of Depression Like?

Depression has many faces. One of the reasons it often goes unrecognized is because symptoms are widespread and sometimes vague. Here's a list of symptoms, along with some of the ways each one may be experienced.
Symptoms
What It's Like
Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood "My real feeling was just pure numbness. I just couldn't feel happy. It was almost like I was underwater with my eyes and ears shut off, and I was just there."
Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism "When you're in the middle of it, you don't know when it's going to end. You can't even see the light at the end of the tunnel – it’s just not there."
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness "You tell yourself that everything that you are doing is wrong and that there's no possibility of succeeding. If you're looking at changing your life, you won't because you know you are going to fail."
Loss of interest or pleasure in once-enjoyable hobbies and activities, including sex "You basically lose interest in everything and you can't understand why." Individuals may not want to do anything or see anyone. Things that would ordinarily bring pleasure before now seem like just one more burden to deal with.
Decreased energy, fatigue, being "slowed down" "Since I had the time, I had a list of little projects I was going to get done at home. But I just didn't have the energy, the motivation – the oomph."
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions "I couldn't sit still for a minute or really do anything that took any concentration."
Difficulty sleeping and early-morning awakening or problems with chronic oversleeping "A good night's sleep was impossible. Sometimes I would wake up in the middle of the night with my mind racing. A feeling of hopelessness would just constantly nag at me, and I couldn't get back to sleep."
Reduced appetite and weight loss, or increased appetite and weight gain "I didn't have any desire to eat. Food seemed to have no taste." On the other hand, some people will overeat because of frustration or misery.
Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts "It's wasn't a matter of wanting to go out and kill myself – it was more a matter or feeling I couldn't stand the pain anymore."
Restlessness, irritability "I could never relax. I never felt rested. I felt angry at myself for not being able to get things together on my own."
Persistent physical symptoms that don't respond to treatment Individuals may experience a wide variety of physical complaints including stomachaches, indigestion, constant headaches or other pain, tightness in the chest, and difficulty breathing. It's imperative to contact your physician for evaluation and to include a discussion of both your physical and your non-physical symptoms.

This list of symptoms is just a start – not a diagnosis. If you think you, or someone you care about, is depressed, or if you just need more information, call ValueOptions anytime at 1-800-997-4841. Services are completely confidential.

The information contained in this newsletter is not intended to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. If you have any questions about managing your health and/or seeking medical care, please contact a medical professional.
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