Depression treatment and suicide prevention

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Ways to treat depression

Depression is a serious medical illness that involves the brain, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services says.

According to their website, more than 20 million people in the U.S. have depression.

Symptoms can include

Sadness

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy

Change in weight

Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping

Energy loss

Feelings of worthlessness

Thoughts of death or suicide

There are a variety of causes, including genetic, environmental, psychological, and biochemical factors.

The department says depression usually starts between the ages of 15 and 30 and is much more common in women.

There are effective treatments for depression, including antidepressants and talk therapy.

Warning Signs of Suicide

If someone you know is showing one or more of the following behaviors, he or she may be thinking about suicide. Don't ignore these warning signs. Get help immediately.

Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself

Looking for a way to kill oneself

Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain

Talking about being a burden to others

Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs

Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly

Sleeping too little or too much

Withdrawing or feeling isolated

Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

Displaying extreme mood swings

If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1.800.273.TALK (8255). Trained crisis workers are available to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you think someone is in immediate danger, do not leave him or her alone-stay there and call 911.

More information: http://www.mentalhealth.gov/