Understanding Depression

What causes Depression?Family History

Having a family members who have depression may increase a persons riskImbalances of certain chemicals in the brain may lead to depression

Major Life Changes

Positive or negative events can trigger depression. Examples include the death of a loved one or a promotion.Major Illnesses such as heart attack, stroke or cancer may trigger depression.

Certain medications used alone or in combination can cause side effects much like the symptoms of depression.Use of Alcohol or other Drugs can lead to or worsen depression.Depression can also occur for no apparent reason!

Symptoms of DepressionVary from person to person

2 key signs are loss of interest in things you like to do and sadness or irritability

Additional Signs include:Changes in feelings which may include:Feeling emptyInability to enjoy anythingHopelessnessLoss of sexual desireLoss of warm feelings for family or friendsFeelings of self blame or guiltLoss of self esteemInexplicable crying spells, sadness or irritability

Changes in behavior and attitudeThese may include:General slowing downNeglect of responsibilities and appearancePoor memoryInability to concentrateSuicidal thoughts, feelings or behaviorsDifficulty making decisions

Physical ComplaintsThese may include:Sleep disturbances such as early morning waking, sleeping too much or insomniaLack of energyLoss of appetiteWeight loss or gainUnexplained headaches or backachesStomachaches, indigestion or changes in bowl habits

Common Types of DepressionMajor DepressionDysthymiaBipolar DisorderSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Major DepressionThis type causes symptoms that may:Begin suddenly, possibly triggered by a loss, crisis or changeInterfere with normal functioningContinue for months or yearsIt is possible for a person to have only one episode of major depression. It is more common for episodes to be long lasting or to occur several times during a persons life

DysthymiaPeople with this illness are mildly depressed for years. They function fairly well on a daily basis but their relationships suffer over time.

Bipolar DisorderPeople with this type of illness change back and forth between periods of depression and periods of mania (an extreme high). Symptoms of mania may include:Less need for sleepOverconfidenceRacing thoughtsReckless behaviorIncreased energyMood changes are usually gradual, but can be sudden

Season Affective DisorderThis is a depression that results from changes in the season. Most cases begin in the fall or winter, or when there is a decrease in sunlight.

Professional treatment is necessary for all these types of depression.

Treatment for DepressionMedicationAntidepressants can help ease the symptoms of depression and return a person to normal functioning. Antidepressants are not habit forming.

PsychotherapyThis can help many depressed people understand themselves and cope with their problems. For example:Interpersonal therapy works to change relationships that affect depressionCognitive-behavioral therapy helps people change negative thinking and behavior patterns

If you or someone you know has symptoms of depression

Take Action!

See a doctor for a complete check up.

Go to the Student Counseling Center and talk to a counselor (237-3939).Talk things over with a friend, family member or a residential life staff member.

Dont expect too much of yourselfTake a breakGet some exerciseAvoid extra stress and big changes

Things to doReduce or eliminate the use of alcohol or drugsExercise or engage in some form of physical activityEat a proper, well-balanced diet

Obtain an adequate amount of sleepSeek emotional support from family and friendsFocus on positive aspects of your lifePace yourself, modify your schedule, and set realistic goals

Things to AvoidDont make long-term commitments or important decisions unless necessaryDont assume things are hopelessDont engage in emotional reasoning (i.e.: because I feel awful, my life is terrible)Dont assume responsibility for events which are outside of your controlDont avoid treatment as a way of coping

Intervening with a depressed friendBe empathetic and understandingDont try to cheer up a depressed personAvoid critical or shaming statementsChallenge expressions of hopelessnessEmpathize with feelings of sadness, grief, anger and frustration

Dont argue about how bad things areDont insist that depression or sadness are the wrong feelings to be experiencingDont become angry even though your efforts may be resisted or rejected

Helping a depressed friend

Helping a depressed friend

Advocate for their recovery from depressionEmphasize that depression is treatableSeek consultationEncourage them to seek help, go with them to the counseling centerBe supportive of counselor or doctor suggestions

ISU Student Counseling CenterStudent Services Bldg., Lower LevelFREE!!! FREE!!! FREE!!!ConfidentialTypically students come for 6-8 sessionsIndividual, Group and Couples counseling812-237-3939http://www.indstate.edu/cns