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depression

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Q: What are some therapies for depression other than meds?
My boyfriend has severe depression, as well as anxiety disorders. Lately it’s been pretty bad. He’s already on a variety of medications. They lessen the severity, but like I said, it’s still pretty bad. What are some other ways he can bring his depression and anxiety under control? I don’t mean taking herbal remedies or anything like that. I mean something like exercising, which his doctor recommended.

Any help is greatly appreciated, thanks.

A: Exercise is one of the most potent treatments for depression and there is a growing body of research to support this. In several studies exercise was as effective as antidepressant medication in relieving symptoms of depression. It does not have to be aerobic exercise, but should be done at least 3-4 times per week and it may take up to 6 weeks for him to experience the difference. One of the ways you can encourage him to exercise is to do it with him. Go walking, jogging, biking or even dancing. This may not only help relieve his depression, but will give you more time with him as well doing a shared activity. If his depression is caused by a particular problem he is facing, then medication will not help, He needs to address the problem directly.

Good luck

Q: How do things that happened during the great depression still effect us today?
Are there families who are still in debt because of the great depression?
Were any products introduced/gotten rid of because of the great depression?
What about governments of different countries, are any of the governments that changed because of the great depression, still what they changed to?

Thanks :]

A: depression glass

Q: What is atrialateral depression of the atrium?
I had a stress test because of heart pulpations. I have Ischemia ( oxygen-starved) and Atrialateral depression. I did not get a clear view of what it ment.

A: Hey there…

I am not positive, but you may have misheard….Was it possible that what was said was Anteriolateral Depression….

The later would make some sense from what you shared re: Ischemia….Anteriolateral is referring to a section of your heart…it refers more specifically to the Anterior (front) and Lateral (side towards your left armpit) of the left ventricle….The left ventricle, 3X as big as the right, is the muscle that pumps the oxygen rich blood to your systemic systems (Arms, legs, organs, brain, etc). A VERY (most) important part of your heart! ….

The “depression” is likely a reference to the “ST Segment” of your ECG tracing…The ST segment is for us (Cardiology Technologists) a significant indicator of Ischemic changes, and a depression below the isometric line is ischemia (Oxygen deprivation to parts of the heart) and is the “precursor” to it rapidly rising above the line which indicates Myocardial Injury occurring…This of course is shortly followed by Myocardial Death (Heart attack) where portions of the heart “die”. …During a stress test, the test is stopped before injury can occur, but not before good information can be gathered to indicate where potential problems may occur in the heart….

In your case, the test was to try to see if the palpitations could be “provoked” and therefore recorded in the process which would enable your cardiologist to take the next necessary steps in your treatment….It sort of sounds though that the test was stopped when the ischemic changes were noted in your ECG tracing (very appropriate..LOL) That being the case, the palpitation “source” cause has not really been diagnosed because (as far as I know …) ischemia does not usually present itself as heart palpitations….(unless, which you did not say in your brief summary, you did experience heart palpitations during the stress test)…

So, all in all, I wish you the best and I hope that my explanations were not only helpful…(assuming I am correct in thinking that you misheard…hahaha)

Regards!

Q: Depression and anxiety sufferers : How difficult do you find it to meet new people and date ?
I’ve been suffering from anxiety disorder and depression 2 years now and in those 2 years my social skills have dropped tragically and i have zero confidence when it comes to asking a lady out on a date or anything like that.
Im seeing a therapist a couple of times a week and im improving little by little but still a long way to go

was just wondering if anyone else here who suffers from depression or anxiety disorder could tell me do they have the same problems ?

A: Was diagnosed with social anxiety disorder a few years ago. Had to be pulled out of high school because of panic attacks. The drama, rejection, and social aspect of everything brought me to a very suicidal state and even to the state of wanting to harm everyone around me.

I got really bad and left my house very rarely. Year and a half of therapy and family support later I actually starting dating a girl. Then she cheated on me with some jock loser. Which reveres all the progress I made :(

I have the panic attacks back under control and am able to go out for a small amount of time and be okay, but as far as friends, family and relationships, I have had little improvement.

It is made so much worse when no one cares, believes you or even realizes you’re alive. I don’t consider myself loved by anyone and am sure that will continue for some time.

I don’t have much advice, but you’re not alone. In a society that so harshly outcasts those who are different, shy, etc, we have to at least try and be there for each other.

Sorta just waiting for my guardian angel to come along and pick me up off the floor..

Q: What is the differeance with chronic depression and depression?
I wnat to know the difference and is clincical depression the same as chronic depression?
Im 14 F
And i have been diagnosed with chronic depression and in not sure what exactly that means?
And what the differance between normal depression and chronic dep
Thanks
I have taken a number of anti depressants (zoloft, wellbeautrin, prozac, trazdon, and now serequal)

A: Normal depression would be over a situation or trauma such as a parent dying. In that situation you may go through a period of varying degrees of depression for maybe a year or less. Antidepressants help both kinds. Chronic depression is more clinical rather than situational meaning the serotonin levels in the brain are naturally low for some reason and they need to be addressed with long term medication, perhaps for life but not necessarily. I hope you haven’t but if you have been subjected to abuse of any kind be honest with you doctor about it if at all possible. This is very important. The antidepressants won’t work to cover up feelings and these type go deep within you. Anyway , best of luck to you. You are young and have a whole wonderful life ahead of you. Choose happiness for your mood for yourself as often as you can, it really is a choice. ;~)

Q: How many people think suicide or depression is an illness?
I have depression, and I’ve tried to kill myself, hell, I even used to cut, but I want you all to help me out here..How many people think suicide or depression, hell, even cutting, is an illness? Cause really I’m sick of people thinking it is, so please, tell me you opinion, do you think they are illnesses?

A: Depression is an ILLNESS.

It is a chemical imbalance in the brain.
There are chemicals in the brain called Neurotransmitters -These send signals from one neuron to the next across synapses – ( they are chemicals that pass signals from one cell to another cell)
When these signals start to misfire -you can have depression.
They can even measure these signals in brain studies.
Medication can put these neurotransmitters back on track -which in turn will (hopefully, lift the depression.)
Yes, depression is an illness, just like other physical illnesses, altho it may not be as apparent as other physical illnesses,(cancer or diabetes – etc.)

Q: What is the difference between psychotic Depression and Schizophrenia?
I am having for the first time auditory alucinations. I suffer from Psychotic Depression but I am so afraid to get Schizophrenia. What is the difference between psychotic depression and schizophrenia???

A: “silkyegg…” — Do your research…SCHIZOPHRENIA and MULTIPLE PERSONALITY DISORDER – ARE *NOT* THE SAME THING…IDIOT!

This is from a doctor. The question is asked about schizoaffective & not plain schizophrenia, but I think you you will get the differences:

this info is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions that apply directly to you or your care, ask your healthcare provider(s). This may be more than you were looking for, but here goes:

What is the difference between bipolar disorder with psychotic episodes and schizoaffective disorder?

This is somewhat of a confusing distinction…
• Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by depressive episodes with manic or mixed episodes. A person with bipolar disorder can have psychotic episodes during either a manic phase or depression phase. They key here is that the mood disorder is always present, the psychosis is not.
• In schizoaffective disorder, both symptoms of mood disorder and schizophrenia are present. The patient experiences mood swings and at least 2 psychotic symptoms (delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking) simultaneously – but the psychosis is the dominant feature (the mood swings may come and go). Even if the mood episode(s) clear, psychosis is still present to some degree.

What are the different types of psychoses?
• Schizophrenia
o A person must meet 3 criteria to be schizophrenic:
 Display 2 or more of the following symptoms, each present for most of the time during a one-month period:
• Delusions (bizarre/illogical thoughts”)
• Hallucinations (ex: hearing voices)
• Disorganized speech
• Grossly disorganized behavior (ex: dressing for a snowstorm in 90 degree weather) or catatonic behavior
• Negative symptoms (decline in emotional response, decline of speech or motivation)
 The above symptoms must significantly impact the person’s ability to function (maintain relationships, work, go to school, etc.)
 There must be continuous signs of the disturbance persist for at least six months. This six-month period must include at least one month of symptoms
• Shchizoaffective disorder – as described above
• Schizophreniform – related to schizophrenia, with two differences:
o The total duration of the illness is at least 1 month but less than 6 months
o Significantly impaired function is not required, though it may be present as well.
• Brief psychotic episode: A person may experience psychotic symptoms that are of sudden onset, short lived, and followed by return to baseline function. Not associated with another illness, medical condition or medication/drug
• Delusional Disorder: Person does not meet the criteria for schizophrenia (though may experience tactile/olfactory hallucinations), however, experiences delusions. Delusions are typically not bizarre (jealous delusions very common), person is usually highly-functioning.
• Shared psychotic episode: Rare! Psychotic symptoms are shared between 2 individuals such as siblings/spouses.
• Important to note that various medical conditions such as alzheimer’s disease, brain tumors, multiple sclerosis, lyme disease, electrolyte disturbances etc. can cause psychotic symptoms. As can many medications/drugs/alchohol.

Is it possible to be manic and depressed at the same time?
• Yes, this is referred to as a “mixed” state or episode, where symptoms of depression and mania occur simultaneously.

HOPE THIS HELPS!

EDIT: Please note that if you are ever diagnosed w/schizophrenia, do to your depression you will more than likely will receive the diagnosis of schioaffective instead — the affective simply means that you some type of mood disorder along w/schizophrenia -

EDIT: “matt” you did a good job at giving characteristics of schizophrenia, however, you obviously have no idea what psychosis is: “People experiencing psychosis may report hallucinations or delusional beliefs, and may exhibit personality changes and disorganized thinking. This may be accompanied by unusual or bizarre behavior, as well as difficulty with social interaction and impairment in carrying out the activities of daily living.” SCHIZOPHRENIA & PSYCHOSIS ARE SYNONOMUS” –”COOKIE” has written a well thought out/well organized question -I HARDLY THINK SHE IS “WHACKED”!!! That being said, from my experience w/depression I would have to agree you – depression is a battle that must eventually fought internally — MEDS & THERAPY, though can be a great comfort blanket for those waiting to realize this!

Q: I have depression and out of medicine, is there something else to replace the medication?
I am 23 year old female. I have a 2 year old daughter. I have had problems with depression since I have had her. Because of the depression, I have gained 40 lbs. Is there something else besides medicine that I can take or do? My depression is hurting my marriage. I am out of refills on my medication. I just want something besides my medication to help me, if there is any. Serious answers only please.

A: My English isn’t perfect but I’ll do my best to tell you how I got out of it. I’d been struggling with serious depression from January till about June this year. I think I am healthy now, but consider myself depression prone and going to pay attention to my life style for the rest of my life.
My answer to your question is make your life as positive as possible and give yourself 6 months to feel better.
1. Watch positive movies, TV programs and laugh a lot. Avoid TV news and newspapers – they are depressing. Avoid thrillers, dramas, horror movies etc. In general avoid anything negative.
2. Read positive, inspiring books.
3. Listen to joyful music.
4. Regularly exercise.
5. Avoid toxic people, even if they are members of your family. / Spend time with positive,uplifting people.
6. Meet friends on regular basis.
7. Make a list of your life achievements, and focus on it every morning and evening.
8. Every night, before going to sleep make a list of good things that happened to you that day. Be grateful for them.
9. Meditate every day.
10. Sleep well, and try to go to bed always at the same tiime.
11. Every day give yourself time to spend with things you love to do.
12. Bless your enemies.
13. Make your home a peaceful place. You should always feel “at home” when you’re at home.
14. Yes, have a healthy diet.

I’d also recommend the following books:
1. Creating Optimism – Bob Murray & Alicia Fortinberry
2. Change Your Brain, Change Your Life – Daniel G. Amen
3. The 4:8 Principle – Tommy Newberry

Hang in there!

Q: How does a depression medicine work for anxiety?
I have Social anxiety. My doctor prescribed Zoloft which is a depression medicine. I am just curious, how does the same medicine also treats social anxiety???

A: They go hand in hand. You get anxious about something and after some time it becomes depressed over that same thing. In both cases, when the nerve ends send messages to the next nerve thru a gap, these messages don’t get there, they sort of bounce back to their origin. This is what’s called a chemical imbalance in the brain. These messages are sent via chemicals ‘jumping’ from one nerve end to the other. If they don’t get ‘absorbed’ by the second nerve, we become depressed and probably more anxious about more things in life.

Q: What is the worst about having depression or bipolar disorder ?
I have been diagnosed for depression and I was wondering if you guys would be so kind as to telling about your experiences. And please tell me a tip for fighting depression.

A: I’ve had recurrent depression for decades, sometimes lasting a month or two, sometimes a year or more. The worst for me is how much my depression hurts on the inside, how much it makes me loathe and hate myself — but that’s the depression screwing up the chemicals, the neurotransmitters, in my brain and telling me lies.

It really makes me feel hopeless, though, makes me beat myself in the head. The most recent episode, Depression led me to go shopping for a weapon because I just didn’t think I could hold on any longer. I decided to go into the hospital because I knew I would die if I didn’t. This was last year, after 3 years of worsening depression, despite meds and therapy and all.

I’m healthy now. though, and glad I’m alive. It is, indeed, crucial to remember that you will feel better someday and that the negative messages your brain tells you are NOT true. And to keep asking for help when things are bad.

Q: What are effective ways to battle depression and stress?
I have been under way to much stress for way to long now and it is leading to defeat and depression. What are effective ways to battle depression and get rid of the pressure in my head due to stress? Life is too short and my kids are too great to be living like this. Thanks!

A: You need to relax by doing deep breathing, meditating, and lots of praying. You need to prioritize your tasks by doing the most important things first and try not to worry about the small things too much. And always remember that God will make a way for you because he never give you too much that you can’t handle. You can overcome ANYTHING if you just believe. Also, try to stay away from negative people and surround yourself around positive attitudes. Stay strong for your kids!

Q: What is the difference between mild depression, severe depression and being bi polar?
How is being bi polar different from clinical depression? Is being bi polar a disabilty, disease, both or neither?

A: Hey

I am going to try and answer your questions in the same order you asked them..

MILD DEPRESSION:

Because this is only the mild form of the disorder, the symptoms are not very severe. Sufferer may carry on with their normal lives, only appearing low in spirits and possibly less sharp in their thinking or in their interest. They may stop doing things they do not actually have to do, but will often continue with the essentials, such as going to work or carring for the family.

However, they will tend not to be as conscientious about these things as previously, or will become upset because they feel they are not coping as well as they should because they feel too tired.

SEVERE DEPRESSION:

Severe Depression includes markedly depressed mood complicated by symptoms such as slowed speech, slowed (or agitated) responses, markedly impaired memory and concentration, excessive (or diminished) sleep, significant weight loss (or weight gain), intense feelings of worthlessness and guilt, recurrent thoughts of suicide, and lack of interest in pleasurable activities. This form of clinical depression is a dangerous and excruciating illness. The emotional structure of the brain has frozen into a pattern of misery that cannot be altered by willpower, a change of scenery, or the most earnest efforts of friends. In a sense, the brain has locked up like a crashed computer.

BI – POLAR

People with Bipolar Disorder experience extreme mood swings that can take three different forms: manic, depressive, and mixed episodes. Symptoms can include both a lowering of mood (depression) and an exaggerated elevation of mood (mania).

MANIC BI POLAR EPISODES

In a manic episode, some people with Bipolar Disorder may experience an elevated (extremely happy) mood, often described as feeling “on top of the world.” Others may feel very agitated and act uncooperative and aggressive, which can be frightening for themselves and others. Patients often report that these episodes result in consequences that must be dealt with after the symptoms fade.

A diagnosis for a manic episode includes either an elevated or an irritable mood lasting at least a week plus three or more of the following symptoms:

•Talking too fast or too much
•Risky or impulsive behavior, like sexual promiscuity or excessive spending sprees
•Needing little sleep
•Being easily distracted (your attention shifts between many topics in just a few minutes)
•Having an inflated feeling of power, greatness, or importance
•Intense focus on goal-directed activity
•Racing thoughts

DEPRESSIVE BI – POLAR

A diagnosis for a major depressive episode requires having a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in activities a person used to enjoy. In addition, four of the following symptoms must also be present nearly every day for at least two weeks:

•Significant weight loss when not dieting or weight gain (i.e., a change of more than 5% of body weight in a month), or decrease or increase in appetite
•Insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping) nearly every day
•Feeling restless or sluggish to the point that others notice
•Fatigue or loss of energy
•Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt
•Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness
•Recurrent thoughts of death (not just fear of dying), recurrent suicidal thoughts without a specific plan, or a suicide attempt or a specific plan for committing suicide
Mixed episodes
A mixed episode includes symptoms that are both manic and depressive.

ABILIFY (aripiprazole) is used for the treatment of manic or mixed episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder in adults and in pediatric patients 10 to 17 years of age.

Bipolar is verry different from clinical depression

Q: What damage does depression do to the brain and how can you treat it?
How does it effect your chemical balance, your brain? Is it critical or will be critical later in life? I just read on Yahoo News that Clinical stress could increase risk of Alzheimer’s later in life. Does age matter like during teen years? I had depression and begun running. I noticed that I have a hard time focusing and absorbing information. I forgot a lot of things. All my brain seems to focus on is emotions. Can I change that? The running has made me feel a lot better afterwards.

A: Hi Tanja, I’m glad to hear your running, any excercise is good but the more oxygen you can get into your bloodstream the better you will feel. The moment you start thinking about depression, evacuate it from your mind and focus on something different for as many times as it takes. Studies show that it takes at least 16 conscious efforts to break a bad habit. Depression is a great tool used by the enemy to destroy your well being. Your way ahead of the game since you have already described the way your feeling. Most adults won’t admit there’s a problem so your doing good by admitting these things and seeking solutions for them.

Q: What will happen if I am on depression medications and am prescribed accutane?
I am on depression medication and my dermatologist prescribed me Accutane. I really need it as it is my last resort, I have been going to her for 6 years. My skin doesn’t want to clear up. She does not know about my depression problem (which is ONLY a result of a recent bad breakup). If I tell her, will she work with me or is she going to pull the plug on giving me the prescription?! Please help. I need the help!

A: You must tell her about the medication and the depression. To not do so damages the trust needed to have a good doctor patient relationship. She needs to be able to trust that you give truthful answers and you need to trust that she will make the best decisions for your care. She may continue with the course of accutane, just with closer monitoring, but that should be a decision you make together. The reason for the depression does not matter, only that you have an increased risk while taking accutane.

Q: Would the Great Depression have occurred if the monopolies of the early 20th century were left intact?
These companies were huge! Would FDR have to bail them out during the Depression? Or was it more like the Compromise of 1850, only delaying the inevitable onslaught of the Depression? Would the Great Depression have occurred earlier?

A: It is hard to say of course but there were a number of factor affecting the Great Depression.

There has never been one consensus explanation for the Great Depression. Since 1929, economists and historians have developed a number of competing theories to explain the American economy’s disastrous performance in the 1930s, and their debates over the true causes of the Depression—which have profound public-policy implications even today—have often been quite contentious.

From Shmoop

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