Depression is a mood disorder that can cause low feelings, sadness and a general loss of interest in daily life and activities. Depression can affect people in a variety of different ways, with some people having extreme low periods and others having a constant general feeling of sadness. Depression can cause people to have difficulty in their relationships, their career and much more. Depression may occur at a certain time in a person’s life such as after the death of a friend or family member or the loss of a job. Some people may struggle with bouts of depression throughout their life.
Depression Symptoms
The symptoms of depression may vary from one person to the next, but the following are the most common symptoms reported:
- Feelings of sadness
- Feelings of guilt and/or shame
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Anger
- Irritability
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed including personal hobbies, friends, pets, and sports
- Difficulty sleeping
- Sleeping too much
- Irregular sleeping habits
- General fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Unexplained physical health complaints
- Suicidal thinking
- Becoming withdrawn
- Isolating behavior
It is important to see a doctor if you are feeling depressed and generally sad. Your doctor will be able to help you determine the right treatment plan to address your symptoms and make you feel better. Your doctor may recommend therapy, exercise, eating a healthy diet, practicing good positive sleeping habits and more. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or feeling helpless, you should reach out to a health professional emergency number right away.
Causes
The exact cause of depression is not known. A variety of different factors may contribute to the cause including:
- Biological differences
- Brain chemistry
- Hormones
- Traumatic events
- Stress
- Mental health disorders
- Alcohol and drug abuse
- Certain illnesses
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression is a form of depression that women who have just had a baby may develop. Postpartum depression generally occurs within three weeks after the baby is born, but can occur later as well.
Postpartum Depression Symptoms
Women who are experiencing postpartum depression may have the following symptoms:
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Feelings of sadness and hopelessness
- Feeling guilty or ashamed
- Crying a lot
- Sleeping too much
- Inability to sleep
- Feeling unable to care for the baby
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
- Difficulty focusing
Causes
Postpartum may be caused by a variety of different factors including (but not limited to) :
- Hormones
- Hormones fluctuate greatly during and after pregnancy. The change in hormone levels can cause depression.
- History of mental illness
- Mothers have experienced mental illness including depression are prone to developing postpartum depression.
- Stress
- The new responsibilities of a new child are stressful and unpredictable. Many women feel anxious and may become depressed.
If you think that you may be suffering from postpartum depression you should make an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to help you come up with a treatment plan which may include therapy, exercise and more.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a common emotion that many people have now and again. Anxiety can occur because of stressful situations such as public speaking, a big event or test. Anxiety disorders are different than the common feeling of anxiety. Anxiety disorders are a type of mental illness and can make daily life difficult. Some people who have anxiety disorders can have feelings of worry and fear constantly. Their feelings of anxiety can prevent them from taking part in certain activities of going out in certain settings.
Anxiety Symptoms
Anxiety has many different symptoms. A few of the most common symptoms of anxiety include:
- Nervous feelings
- Rapid breathing
- Sweating
- Trouble concentrating
- Trouble sleeping
- Shaking
- Rapid heartbeat
- Nausea
- Worrying
- Isolating
- Avoiding fears
A few of the most common types of anxiety include:
- Agoraphobia
- Social anxiety disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Separation anxiety disorder
You should see your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms above that are interfering with your daily living. Anxiety can cause problems in your relationships, career and personal happiness. Your doctor will be able to help you to find the right treatment method to help you effectively cope with your anxiety.
Anxiety Attack Symptoms
Anxiety attacks can be frightening and powerful. Anxiety attacks can cause a person to feel completely overwhelmed and out of control. There are many different symptoms that can happen during an anxiety attack. A few of the most common anxiety attack symptoms include:
- Feeling of being out of control
- Sweating
- Rapid heart rate
- Trouble breathing
- Nausea
- Heart palpitations
- Chest pain
- Numbness
- Sudden weak feeling
- Emotional upset and distress
- Panic
- Feeling detached from reality
There are many other symptoms of anxiety that may occur as well which may include physical and emotional reactions. Anxiety attacks may vary in duration, frequency, and intensity. Some people may experience anxiety attacks if they are forced with certain triggers including people, places, and things.