About a third of people with depression don't know they have it. And two-thirds don't seek treatment. The reasons are numerous: Lack of recognition. People frequently don't recognize their symptoms as depression. Many think their symptoms are a normal part of life just a bad case of the blues. This is especially true if symptoms are more agitation or irritation rather than a depressed mood.
Embarrassment and confidentiality.
Some people are embarrassed to seek treatment because they think depression carries a stigma of mental illness. In addition, concern about employer confidentiality may prevent some people from seeking treatment.
Effects of Depression.
In many cases, people know they're depressed or at least suspect that something is wrong. But the feelings of helplessness and hopelessness brought on y their depression prevent them from seeking treatment.
Diagnosing Depression
To diagnose depression, your physician may perform a physical examination, including tests to rule out conditions that can cause symptoms that mimic depression. If the doctor sees signs of severe depression or suspects the possibility of suicide, he or she may refer you to a psychiatrist or even recommend immediate hospitalization. There are two hallmarks of depression-symptoms that usually confirm the diagnosis. They are:
Loss of interest in normal daily activities.
Few paragraphsDepressed mood.
Sleep disturbances.
Significant weight loss or gain.
Agitation or slowing of body movements.
Fatigue.
Low self-esteem.
Thoughts of death.
Impaired thinking or concentration.
Loss of libido.
Changes in mood.
Changes in behavior.
MEDICATIONS:
Drugs are the first-line treatment for depression. Medications for depression aren't habit-forming, and they're usually less costly that lengthy counseling. In addition, adequate treatment with medications is more likely to prevent a recurrence. Side effects from antidepressant medications are usually mild and temporary. The most common are dry mouth, changes in sleep patterns, restlessness, nausea, constipation, bladder problems, sexual dysfunction, dizziness and drowsiness.
As with all medications, there are some cautions, especially for older people. Drugs are cleared from their bodies more slowly, so they may need lower doses. In addition, older people often take more drugs for other conditions. There drugs may interact with antidepressants. And antidepressants that cause sedation may make older people more prone to falls. Medication choice depends on your symptoms and your personal or family history of depression.