Signs of Depression
Q: What are the warning signs of depression (other than "feeling sad") and what can be done about it? Also, please tell us about the herb St. John’s Wort and if it can be used to treat depression.
A: Depression, for many, is a slow, almost imperceptible process in which life, in varying degrees, begins to lose its meaning. Research demonstrates a measurable depletion of certain chemicals in the brain; this is the foundation for many of the drugs used to treat this condition.
The following are warning signs of depression and should be taken seriously if one regularly experiences them:
- Depressed mood
- Loss of appetite for food
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping much more than usual
- A sense of helplessness and hopelessness
- Thoughts about suicide
- Loss of interest in the activities of daily living (work, play, time with family and friends)
- Unusual irritability
- Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
- Diminished ability to think or concentrate
If you are experiencing up to five of these symptoms for more than two weeks, this may represent a serious depressive episode. If so, see your doctor as soon as possible. Treatment may include counseling, medication, and in severe cases hospitalization.
St. John’s Wort has been historically used as a mood elevator and some research has demonstrated a positive effect on the brain chemistry of depression. In some limited studies benefits were shown like reducing anxiety and feelings of worthlessness, as well as improvements in quality of sleep.
I would discourage anyone reading this from self-diagnosis and consequently running down to the health food store to arrange treatment. A depressive illness can be serious, necessitating evaluation by an objective professional.
Article Created: 1997-12-15
Article Reviewed: 2005-01-24
Dr. Russell Robertson is Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Associate Professor of Family and Community Medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin. His biweekly column of medical advice also appears in the CNI Community Newspapers throughout metropolitan Milwaukee.
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