Has your mental health recently taken a toll? With the end of school and start of a summer break, it is very easy for us to feel increased pressure from our parents or people around us who tell us what we should do. If you feel that your signs of depression has been getting worse, it might no longer just be sadness, but a form of clinical depression. It is very important at this point that you recognize the signs of depression and really self care and get the proper help.
If you are feeling depressed or contemplating suicide please remember that you are not alone.
Suicide Hotlines:
America: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Canada: 1-866-531-2600
Australia: 13 11 14
United Kingdom: +44 (0) 8457 90 90 90
Beijing: 0800-810-1117
Hong Kong: +852 28 960 000
Japan/Tokyo: 81 (0) 3 5286 9090
Brazil: 55 11 31514109 or (91) 3223-0074
Mexico: 9453777
Malaysia: 03-76272929
Germany: 0800 111 0 111
Russia: (495) 625 3101
India: 91-22-27546669
Iran: 1480
South Africa: 0800 12 13 14
This is only a short list of a few countries, but there is always somebody to reach out to.
DISCLAIMER: This video is not intended to diagnose or be a substitute for professional mental health guidance. Please reach out to a qualified mental health professional if you are struggling.
Writer: Paula C.
Script Editor: Vanessa Tao
Script Manager: Kelly Soong
Voice: Drew Baillie
Animator: Sara Miedler (new animator)
YouTube Manager: Cindy Cheong
References
Bruce, D. F. (n.d.). Signs of clinical depression: Symptoms to watch for. WebMD. Retrieved from www.webmd.com/depression/guide/detecting-depression.
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-5. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Publishing; 2013.
Kanter, J. W., Busch, A. M., Weeks, C. E., & Landes, S. J. (2008). The nature of clinical depression: Symptoms, syndromes, and behavior analysis. The Behavior Analyst, 31(1), 1–21. doi.org/10.1007/bf03392158
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2018, February). Depression. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved from www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression.
What Is Depression? American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression.
Treatment For Depression
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Treatment For Depression
While depression is not something that will go away on its own, it is one of the most common afflictions, lasting from several months to several years. It affects all aspects of a person’s life, making it difficult to treat, if at all possible. Treatment is available through a variety of methods, including psychological therapy and online e-therapies. If your depression is severe, however, your doctor may recommend that you seek medical attention.
Psychotherapy for depression usually involves a combination of different techniques, including cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy. Cognitive therapy aims to challenge distorted thoughts and behaviors, while behavioral therapy focuses on changing the way you behave in specific situations. Group therapy can help you cope with similar situations. Various types of therapy are available, ranging from simple talk therapy to extensive group work. Most of these methods can last for months or even years. In some cases, however, significant improvements may be seen in a few sessions.
A healthcare provider can diagnose depression by asking about the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Blood tests may be ordered to rule out medical conditions that cause similar symptoms. Your healthcare provider may also order tests to rule out other conditions. Sometimes, medications or substances can cause depression symptoms. If you feel suffocating or are having trouble concentrating, you may have a medical condition. Your healthcare provider may prescribe a drug to help you get through the day.
While medications can temporarily relieve the symptoms of depression, they do not work for very long. Instead, a healthy lifestyle and exercise can help you overcome depression. Taking steps to reduce your stress levels is important for your overall health and well-being. Try to exercise every day, avoid smoking and alcohol, and take a walk in the park. If these don’t work, try to consult a doctor for treatment. Medications and therapy can help you recover from depression, but they are not a permanent fix.
Studies suggest that there is a genetic predisposition to depression. In an international study of 2 million people, researchers identified 269 genes associated with depression. Although genetics do not write your destiny, they do increase your risk for depression. Stress, poor self-esteem, and environmental factors may all play a role in the development of depression. It is important to differentiate depression from other types of depression. If you suspect you are suffering from depression, make an appointment with a psychiatrist today.
Depression is one of the most treatable mental disorders. Studies show that 80 to 90 percent of people with depression respond to treatment and get relief from their symptoms. To diagnose depression, your health care provider will evaluate your symptoms and medical history. Blood tests can help rule out medical causes of depression. By reversing these causes, you can often treat the symptoms of depression. In addition, your health professional will explore specific symptoms and environmental factors that may be contributing to your depressive disorder.
