It’s summer time! You’re more attractive than you think.
Writer: Chloe Avenasa
Script Editor: Vanessa Tao
Script Manager: Kelly Soong
VO: Amanda Silvera (www.youtube.com/amandasilvera)
Animator: TheMindfulMudkip
YouTube Manager: Cindy Cheong
REFERENCES
Dion, K. K., & Stein, S. (2008). Physical attractiveness and interpersonal influence. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 14(1), 97-108.
Montoya, R. M., Kershaw, C., & Prosser, J. L. (2018). A meta-analytic investigation of the relation between interpersonal attraction and enacted behavior. Psychological bulletin, 144(7), 673.
Zhang, Y., Wang, X., Wang, J., Zhang, L., & Xiang, Y. (2017). Patterns of eye movements when observers judge female facial attractiveness. Frontiers in psychology, 8, 1909.
Place, S. S., Todd, P. M., Penke, L., & Asendorpf, J. B. (2009). The ability to judge the romantic interest of others. Psychological Science, 20(1), 22-26.
Depression Diagnosis and Treatment
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Depression Diagnosis and Treatment
One of the easiest ways to determine if you’re suffering from depression is to consult a physician. Many primary care physicians can refer patients to a psychiatrist or therapist. Depression is also diagnosed by screening tools, like the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). These tests are useful in evaluating the severity of depression and are used by most physicians. Fortunately, almost all patients who suffer from depression are treated successfully. A health care professional will perform a thorough evaluation, interview the patient, and conduct a physical exam. A health care provider may also order blood tests to rule out any medical problems that might be causing the depression. If the physician thinks that the medical condition is the cause of the depression, he or she will explore these medical conditions, as well as the patient’s environment and cultural influences.
Primary care physicians are trained to diagnose depression, as well as refer patients to a mental health professional. These providers will ask a patient about his or her symptoms and how frequently they occur. They may also order a physical examination to rule out other conditions that could be causing the symptoms. Sometimes, depression can be caused by certain medications or conditions, so the doctor will order lab tests. If depression is a factor, treatment may involve a combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions.
Although antidepressants may help some people, they’re not a cure-all. These medicines come with risks, and they should be taken only after consulting your healthcare provider. People with depression may also need to take antidepressants long-term to help prevent future episodes. However, this option may not be right for every person. While antidepressants are often the first choice of many physicians, these drugs do not change your personality. They can cause sexual difficulties and can even interfere with a person’s ability to become aroused.
Antidepressants can also be combined with other medicines to treat the disorder. A combination of antidepressants is usually prescribed for best results. Depending on the severity of the depression, they can lead to a relapse. Treatment-resistant depression can be difficult to treat, but effective medications are available. Your health care provider will discuss the various treatment options available to you. Once you have chosen the right treatment option, the doctor will prescribe you a medication.
Although it’s important to seek treatment for depression, it’s important to understand the causes of depression. Unlike the common misconception that depression is caused by a simple lack of motivation, major depression is a chronic medical illness with a biological basis. It can negatively affect your health and quality of life. You should seek help as soon as possible. So, how do you determine if you’re suffering from depression? Fortunately, you’re not alone.
Talk therapy is an effective way to treat depression. Talk therapy helps patients develop skills to feel better and prevent future episodes. Common methods include cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Some people use a combination of approaches. It’s important to find the one that works best for you. If you’re not sure which therapy to use, consider visiting the National Institute of Mental Health’s depression webpage. There are helpful guides on different types of therapy, how to find a mental health professional, and questions to ask yourself when considering a treatment.
