Depression is a serious disorder that can take a terrible toll on you and your family. Depression often gets worse if it is left untreated, resulting in emotional, behavioral and health problems that affect every area of your life.
- Excess weight or obesity - One of the symptoms of depression is a change is appetite which can include overeating. This can lead to obesity which is a risk for heart disease and diabetes.
- Alcohol or drug misuse - Substance abuse is very common in depression. It’s important to monitor for signs of alcohol and drug abuse and get help as soon as possible.
- Anxiety, panic disorder or social phobia – Depression often comes with other mental health conditions which, if left untreated, can make depression more difficult to treat.
- Family conflicts, relationship difficulties, and work or school problems - This can be a trigger of depression or be a perpetuating factor. Get a social worker involved to help facilitate such issues.
- Social isolation – It is very easy to socially isolate yourself when in a depressive state. This is usually not beneficial. Social isolation can worsen the symptoms and fuel hopelessness.
- Suicidal feelings, suicide attempts or suicide – If you are struggling with this, know that it is a symptom of your condition and can be addressed. Please speak to your doctor or a family member. There are many people who can assist you with this.
Written by Dr Ruusa Shivute | Health Window
Reference: Park LT, Zarate CA Jr. Depression in the Primary Care Setting. N Engl J Med. 2019 Feb 7;380(6):559-568