Have there been days where you’re just so tired or mentally exhausted that you don’t know why? The culprit is stress. When you’re stressed out, your body releases more cortisol and takes up more energy from your body mentally and physically. In fact, your executive functions get impaired. It is so important to know the signs that you are stressed out and come up with a strategy for stress management.
READ DISCLAIMER: This video is for informative purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Please reach out to a qualified healthcare provider or mental health professional if you are struggling
Writer: Chenelle Loo
Script Editor: Denise Ding
Script Manager: Kelly Soong
VO: Amanda Silvera (www.youtube.com/amandasilvera)
Animator: Nina Draws (new animator)
YouTube Manager: Cindy Cheong
References
Leadem, R. (2018, March 12). 5 Ways You’re Showing Hidden Signs of Stress. Calendar. www.calendar.com/blog/5-ways-youre-
showing-hidden-signs-of-stress/
Depression – How to Cope With the Symptoms of Depression
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Depression – How to Cope With the Symptoms of Depression
If you are struggling with depression, you are not alone. Many organizations offer free resources and support groups for people with similar experiences. The National Alliance on Mental Illness, Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, and employee assistance programs all offer a variety of resources. Religious groups may also have resources for mental health. Staying active and doing things you once enjoyed will help you cope with your depression. Try to avoid social isolation as much as possible. Make time to talk to friends and family members. Join a support group. Getting education can motivate you to stick with your treatment program. It also helps others understand your condition and the importance of getting help for it.
A medical professional can diagnose depression based on a number of factors. The physical examination and lab tests can reveal underlying conditions, such as thyroid dysfunction. A psychiatric evaluation will also ask you about your symptoms and patterns of behavior. A questionnaire may also be used. The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or DSM-5, can help doctors determine whether you have depression or another mental disorder.
Depression treatment can involve psychotherapy or medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy involves learning how to identify the thoughts and behaviours that contribute to your depression and changing them. Couples and family therapy may focus on issues within the relationship, such as work and finances. Problem-solving therapy is another option for treatment. The goal of problem solving therapy is to identify effective solutions to specific problems. For instance, therapy may focus on overcoming obstacles you face and finding a job.
People who suffer from depression should seek treatment as soon as possible. It is important to note that the symptoms of depression can be very different from ordinary sadness. Although people may experience sadness or unmotivation from time to time, depression is a more serious mental illness. If left untreated, the effects of depression can be catastrophic. It is important to seek treatment early because the sooner you recognize the symptoms, the better your chances of recovery. While some cases may be temporary, others may last a lifetime.
Psychotherapy is the most effective treatment for depression. It can be done on an individual basis or in a family, and is often more effective than antidepressants. The benefits of psychotherapy last long after you stop taking the medication. Similarly, antidepressants can wear off quickly once you stop using them, so you may want to consider combining the two. However, it’s still important to get professional help if the symptoms are severe.
Depression can run in families. It is also genetically passed down through parents. A person with a short gene from each parent may have an increased tendency to experience depression. Psychion exposure and low self-esteem are also risk factors. The symptoms of depression can mimic other conditions, such as diabetes and hypothyroidism. Some medicines can aggravate the symptoms of depression. If depression runs in your family, you might be eligible for social security disability insurance benefits.
