Depression is commonly treated by doctors of psychology. Here are some things to think about.
Doctors who have specialized in the field of psychology often treat individuals for depression. Many people don’t understand that this is actually a chemical imbalance within a person’s brain,
but it is treatable. Family members of sufferers of this malady may not understand that this isn’t just your average “bad mood.” This is a tough animal to deal with. Here are some symptoms and things to think about:
- The individual suffering from this condition may experience irritable snits over seemingly small problems.
- They may feel intense sadness.
- Their sex drive may disappear or decline substantially.
- Sleep patterns may change – this includes sleeping too much or too little.
- Pacing, wringing of hands.
- Weight gain or loss. Changed appetites.
- Extremely tired for no apparent reason.
- Inability to concentrate or focus.
- Crying jags which are unexpected and for small reasons.
- Inability to make decisions.
- Suicidal thoughts – major red flag!
- Self blame to an extreme degree.
- Low motivation
- Physical pain for no apparent reason.
If an individual or one of their loved ones experiences several of these symptoms, they should make an appointment with a psychiatrist or therapist in order to sort out the problems. A screening by a professional should determine whether the individual has situational or clinical depression.
Situational is a response to a difficult situation and may be resolved with therapeutic counseling or lifestyle alterations. Some typical examples of this classification may include individuals who are going through a divorce, job loss or having health problems. Clinical is more severe and is more related to chemical imbalances in the brain. Sometimes situational can slip into the more serious clinical variety so it’s important to seek help in order to remedy the malady.
Depression can affect people that are young or old. Even children may become situationally or clinically sad. Family members or caregivers should be on the lookout for alterations in sleeping, eating or thinking patterns. Kids and teens with ADHD may be at more risk than other children or adolescents. These kids may have self esteem issues that are exacerbated by the disease. Elderly people may feel bored and without purpose which can bring on a bout of the malady.
If a person becomes suicidal, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Calling a friend, minister or therapist may help initially. It may be necessary to take the person to the hospital for immediate treatment. A 911 call may even be necessary. Threats of suicide should always be taken seriously. They are always a call for help.
A doctor of psychiatry is a medical doctor who has specialized in illnesses of the human mind. He or she is different from a psychologist because of the ability to dispense prescription medications. Both psychiatrists and psychologists have received doctorate level degrees but their training is a bit different. A therapist usually has a Masters Level degree in either counseling, behavioral health or social work. Each practitioner may be able to help depressed patients in their own ways
