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by Lola L. Sprinzeles, Ph.D., R.N.
One of the symptoms that many people who live with chronic illness share is depression. There are two types of depression. One type is biochemical. It develops from changes inside the body and relates to brain neurotransmitter function.
The other type of depression is known as reactive depression. It occurs when people feel overwhelmed by stresses associated with personal loss. The emotional response to loss can be felt as a pervasive sense of sadness or a loss of interest or hope for the future.
Some of the symptoms associated with both types of depression include:
Bating too much or too little.
Serious changes in sleep patterns-sleeping too much or too little; having difficulty falling asleep or waking up very early in the morning.
Lack of energy or motivation.
Loss of concentration.
Feeling worthless, helpless or hope-less.
Unusual feelings of anger, irritability or guilt.
Deep feelings of sadness over a long period of time.
Thoughts of suicide or dying.
Depression is, generally, a treatable illness. There are many ways in which a depressed person can be helped to feel good again.
Antidepressant medications are usually very effective in relieving depression.
Psychotherapy can help the depressed person to recognize and cope with those painful emotional responses which are causing so much distress. Group therapy may be helpful, in that constructive suggestions from others who may experience the same feelings may be encouraging.
Exercise results in increased circulation (of blood) to the brain, which influences mood. Involvement in recreational and/or social activities that have been pleasurable in the past should be helpful.
Often; a depressed person will think that with enough effort and willpower, depressing thoughts and feelings can be changed without any assistance from others. Serious depression requires professional intervention. If you have concerns about depression, don't keep them to yourself. You need not be alone, isolated and in despair.
Talk to your doctor. Help is available. Many of life's experiences cannot be changed. Learning to cope with, and adapt to, difficult situations is within the capacity of the human spirit. Feeling better is possible.
From Parkinson's Disease Foundation, spring
1991.
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