Depression

Depression is a mental illness which causes symptoms of
anxiety, hopelessness, negativity and helplessness.

Depression is quite a common condition that can affect people
of any age, including children. Depression is a real illness and is
certainly not a sign of failure. Unlike feelings of unhappiness
that occur due to a particular cause, Depression is persistent and
the symptoms interfere with everyday life. It is a chronic
condition that may require long-term management or treatment.

A family history of Depression increases a person’s risk of
Depression. Other factors can trigger Depression such as losing
your job, isolation, divorce or bereavement (grief). For other
people, triggers may include psychological or physical factors such
as chronic anxiety, infectious diseases like influenza or glandular
fever; having a chronic health problem like multiple sclerosis; or
as a side-effect of medical treatments like chemotherapy. Other
causes of Depression include drinking excess alcohol, using drugs
and some prescription medicines.

Depression can cause you to lose interest in things that you
would normally enjoy. Your work, social and family life can be
adversely affected. In addition, there are many other symptoms,
which can be physical, psychological and social. Common behaviour
associated with Depression includes:

• moodiness that is out of character
• increased irritability and frustration
• finding it hard to take minor personal criticisms
• spending less time with friends and family
• loss of interest in food, sex, exercise or other pleasurable
  activities
• being awake throughout the night
• increased alcohol and drug use
• staying home from work or school
• increased physical health complaints like fatigue or pain
• being reckless or taking unnecessary risks (e.g. driving fast
  or dangerously)
• slowing down of thoughts and actions.

As with all medical conditions consult your Doctor for an
accurate diagnosis and treatment. Doctors describe and treat
Depression according to how severe it is;

Mild Depression has some impact on your daily life.
Antidepressants may not be prescribed initially. Your GP will
monitor your progress and may recommend strategies such as an
exercise program and a ‘talking treatment’ such as cognitive
behavioural therapy.

Moderate Depression has a significant impact on your daily life.
Your GP may recommend a talking treatment and/or an
antidepressant.

Severe Depression makes the activities of daily life nearly
impossible. A small proportion of people with severe Depression may
have psychotic symptoms. Psychosis involves seeing or hearing
things that are not there (hallucinations), feeling everyone is
against you (paranoia) and having delusions. Your GP may recommend
that you take an antidepressant along with talking therapy. You may
also be referred to a mental health team for intensive, specialist
treatment.

See the Depression Diet on the Healthpoint for detailed
information.

Nutritional supplements may only be beneficial if dietary
intake is inadequate. Always consult your Doctor before commencing
supplements, as some may have interactions with other
medications.

• St. John’s Wort is an effective treatment for mild to moderate
  Depression. Check with your Pharmacist as St John’s Wort has
  interactions with several prescription medications.
• Omega-3 fatty acids may be useful in treating depression as low
  levels of Omega-3 fatty acids have been found in people suffering
  from depression. They are found in fish oils, flaxseed oil and
  nuts.
• Folic acid (folate) is often deficient in people with
  Depression.
• Ginkgo can be used to treat depression by increasing the flow
  of oxygen to the brain. .

See the Australian National Association for Mental Health
topic on the Healthpoint.

Ask your Pharmacist for advice.

1. Discuss your medications with your Pharmacist. Some medications
   can cause symptoms very similar to Depression, which can be
   improved by altering the dosage or changing to a different drug.
   Never change medications without your Doctor’s advice.
2. Ask your Pharmacist if you have any questions regarding the
   side-effects or withdrawal symptoms of anti-depressants.
3. Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, which can interact with
   anti-depressants.
4. See the Depression Diet on the Healthpoint and consider the
   nutritional supplements in this topic.
5. Exercise may be helpful. Your GP may refer you to an exercise
   scheme with a qualified fitness trainer.
6. Anti-smoking products may help relieve cravings if you are
   trying to quit. Ask your Pharmacist about nicotine replacement
   therapy.
7. Depression can be a very isolating experience. Many people find
   it helpful to meet with others in a similar situation. Ask your
   Pharmacist or GP about a self-help group in your area. See the
   Organisations and Support Groups section of this topic for more
   information.