Unit 5 Part 3 Depression

Unit 5: Teen IssuesPart 3: Depression

© Jenison International AcademyMelissa Rodgers

Depression

❖ When you feel your sadness will never go away, you are depressed.

Depression

❖ Depression is a common mood disturbance with feelings of sadness, disappointment, or loneliness that can lead to:

❖ 1. Withdrawal from people and activities

❖ 2. Loss of pleasure and enjoyment in life.

❖ 3. Physical discomfort, aches, pains, fatigue, poor digestion, sleep disturbance, etc.

Depression Affects Everyone in Different Ways at Different Times:

❖ 1. Most people feel down or “blue” now and then - a natural reaction to stress and tension. Occasional short term bouts of depression are normal for everyone, but people experience depression differently.

❖ 2. Many people have more serious periods of depression, but are still able to meet daily responsibilities.

❖ 3. Some people become so severely depressed they cannot face problems of daily living. They may abuse alcohol and drugs or become suicidal. Any depression that lasts longer than 2-4 weeks and involves continually feeling isolated, tired and bad about oneself, or that prompts the person to take risks or engage in dangerous behavior, is a signal that immediate help is necessary. When depression becomes profound, people tend to feel helpless, hopeless, and inferior.

Depression Affects Everyone in Different Ways at Different

Times:

❖ Mild depression is our most common emotional disturbance. Serious depression affects 1 in 4 people at some time in their lives. And yet, depression is widely misunderstood. It is often ignored or untreated. People don’t recognize their symptoms, are afraid to seem “weak”, or are too depressed to take action.

Depression Affects Everyone in Different Ways at Different

Times:

Depression can affect anyone at any time:

❖ Elderly people commonly get depressed as a result of physical problems, damaged self-esteem, retirement, declining income, loss of loved ones, loneliness, etc.

❖ Middle aged adults are more likely to become depressed than any other age group. Goals that seem unattainable, children leaving home, etc. may trigger depression.

Depression affect anyone at any time:

❖ Young adults frequently become depressed as they struggle with intense job and family responsibilities and search for fulfillment.

❖ Adolescents experience social stress and rapid physical changes that often lead to mood swings.

❖ Children - even babies – can suffer from depression. It is usually related to family conflicts, and symptoms quickly pass. However, children can suffer severe depression, so it is important to not ignore symptoms.

Types of Depression❖ Mild depression (the “blues”) is the most common type of

depression. It is usually brief and doesn’t seriously interfere with normal activities.

❖ Significant events such as holidays, anniversaries, a new job, a move, as well as boredom and frustration can produce a temporary “down” mood.

❖ Postpartum depression (after giving birth) is a common type of mild depression. However, it can become severe, so talk to your physician if you feel depressed after childbirth.

❖ Treatment is usually not needed. A change of situation, pace, etc., is usually enough to brighten a “blue” mood.

Types of Depression❖ Moderate depression (feeling hopeless) symptoms are

similar to those of mild depression, but more intense and longer lasting.

❖ An unhappy event such as a loss of a loved one, career setback, etc. is usually the cause. This person is aware of unhappy feelings, but can’t stop them.

❖ Daily activities may be harder (but usually still possible) to cope with.

❖ Suicide may be a danger. It seems like the only “solution” as pain gets worse.

❖ Professional help may be necessary.

Types of Depression

❖ Severe depression (separation from reality) is when a loss of interest in the outside world and serious prolonged behavior changes are characteristic.

❖ Deep inner imbalances are usually the cause. Sometimes another disorder such as schizophrenia, alcoholism, or drug addiction may be related to depression.

❖ Physical symptoms often become obvious. The person may suffer from delusions that his or her body is changing.

❖ Manic – depressive disorder is a form of depression in which the person goes from extreme highs and deep lows.

❖ Professional treatment is necessary.

Treatment of Depression

❖ As with most illnesses, treatment is easiest and most effective when it’s begun early. Health professionals can develop a plan to treat depression that may include taking medication, making changes in home or school environment, or counseling. Treating depression takes time, persistence, and patience.