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The PHARMACIST talks about …

Depression

Depression is often called the 'common cold' of our mental and emotional life. We all experience times in our lives when we feel depressed.

Used in this respect the word depression is used to describe the feeling of sadness such as when we are faced with a breakdown of a relationship, a disappointment such as losing a job or the loss of a loved one. Nevertheless, it is important to understand that feeling down for a day or two is not the same as suffering from clinical depression.

The official definition of depression, as stated by the World Health Organisation's International Classification of Disease is:.

• two weeks of abnormal depressed mood
• loss of interest/pleasure and decreased energy
• loss of confidence
• excessive guilt or feeling of worthlessness
• recurrent thoughts of death
• poor concentration
• agitation or retardation of thoughts
• sleep disturbances (insomnia/hypersomnia)
• changes in appetite (resulting in significant weight loss or gain)

Mild depression includes the first two symptoms and at least one other. Severe depression is the first two symptoms and at least five others. Most people with depression never seek help, even though the majority will respond to treatment. Treating depression is especially important because it affects you, your family, and your work. Some people with depression try to harm themselves in the mistaken belief that how they are feeling will never change. Depression is a treatable illness.

There are many types of treatments which are used to treat depression and these are often used in conjunction with each other, but treatment used does depend on a persons' symptoms.

Firstly there is 'talking therapy'. This includes talking to a professional or even writing down your thoughts and feelings in a journal. This style of treatment helps individuals to understand their thoughts, behaviours and interpersonal relationships.

Secondly, depression is often treated with antidepressant medications and these are prescribed by your medical practitioner. these medications relieve depressed feelings, restore normal sleep and eating patterns.

The third type of treatment is call 'self-help therapies'. This includes regular exercise and doing things that once gave you pleasure such as a massage, a facial or even going for coffee with friends. This treatment will not cure depression but by neglecting these areas, depression can actually worsen.

The important thing to remember is that help is available for those suffering from depression. Important numbers and organisations that can help

LIFELINE 131114
KIDS HELP LINE 1800 55 1800
SANE Mental Health Information Line 1800 688 382 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)

To find out what mental health services are available in your area call Lifeline's Just Ask information line on 1300 131 114.

Feel free to come in to Healthpoint Chemist and ask our friendly staff for advice.

Please Note: The advice on this website is to be used as an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace advice from your qualified GP or medical practitioner. Please ensure that you speak to them in relation to all of your health issues.