Depression

• Is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. and worldwide
• Involves a person's body, mind and thoughts -- people who are affected cannot just "pull themselves together" and get better
• affects nearly twice as many women as men
• is only second to hypertension as the most chronic condition encountered in general medical practice

Facts:

• 1 in 4 women will experience an episode of severe depression in her lifetime
• Left untreated, it is the #1 cause of suicide for both men and women -- 30,000 per year in the U.S.
• About 70% of women have depressive symptoms during pregnancy, and 10-16% of pregnant women have major depression
• Postpartum depression affects at least 1 in every 10 new mothers and can last up to 18 months after delivery
• Treatment is available through medications, psychotherapy or a combination of the two (which is often most effective)

Risk factors for depression::

• Prior history of depression
• History of postpartum depression
• History of childhood sexual abuse
• Family history of depression
• Recent stressful life events
• Unhappy or abusive relationships
• Lack of social support
• Substance or alcohol abuse
• Certain medications and medical conditions
• Hormonal changes

Symptoms of depression:

• Inappropriate crying spells
• Prolonged sad or empty mood
• Feelings of hopelessness. worthlessness or self-blame
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Loss of pleasure in activities (including sex)
• Eating too much or too little
• Multiple chronic complaints that never get better (with or without treatment)
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Overwhelming fatigue/low energy
• Restlessness or irritability
• Excessive weight gain or loss
• Thoughts of death of suicide
• Have difficulty sleeping (falling asleep, staying asleep, early morning awakenings

What can I do?

• Seek help if you think you have depression
• Be aware of and recognize symptoms
• Eliminate drug or alcohol use
• Aerobic exercise 30-60 minutes, 5-7 days a week
• Discuss your concerns with your primary care provider

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