Depression can cause great emotional pain, and can lead to suicide. Fortunately, it is one of the most treatable of all mental illnesses. There are a number of medications available that can help those suffering from depression return to happy, productive lives.
The first step in treating depression is recognizing the early warning signs:
- Noticeable change of appetite
- Noticeable change of sleeping habits
- Loss of interest and pleasure in activities you 'enjoy
- Loss of energy or feeling fatigued
- Feeling worthless
- Feeling hopeless
- Not being able to concentrate or think
- Not being able to make decisions
- Recurring thoughts of suicide
- Overwhelming feelings of sadness or grief
- Waking up at least two hours earlier than normal
- Disturbed thinking or beliefs not based on reality
- Suffering from unexplained headaches or stomach aches, or other ailments
Should you suffer from four or more of these symptoms for a period of longer than two weeks, see your doctor for a professional opinion.
For more information on depression and mental illness ask your doctor
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