DEPRESSION

With this country still recovering from the aftermath of the recession, I have seen the medical consequences of this financial disaster. Individuals of most ages are highly stressed. They can’t eat what they may prefer and might not be able to keep their membership at the gym. People are consumed with work and worry. For the past couple years I have made it a point to pry because one particular condition may masquerade around as other things in hopes of not being caught….. Depression.

We now have a better understanding of what causes depression. Neurohormones, such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine, that play a role in making us feel happy are broken down faster in those suffering from depression. Medicines prohibit this from occurring. People have no qualms in telling their friends about taking a pill for blood pressure or diabetes, yet when it comes to a pill for depression… Living with untreated depression is like living with a handicap. And the sooner we realize this fact, the faster the quality of millions of lives will be improved.

Everybody is aware of the obvious signs of this condition. A depressed mood, thoughts of worthlessness and death, and irregular sleep and eating habits. But there are also subtle, more covert symptoms that are only found if asked about in depth. These include low energy, poor concentration, psychomotor retardation or agitation, and a gradual loss of interest in activities– especially those that would bring pleasure to the person. There is also a genetic predisposition—the problem is that mood disorder was taboo, so treatment was rarely sought. Instead, those affected would hurt themselves by abusing alcohol and drugs or hurt others with their edgy behavior. I hope as time goes on these misconceptions fade.