signs of postnatal depression

signs of postnatal depression

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Unipolar major depression/ major depressive disorder is diagnosed in patients who have previously experienced at least one major depressive episode which is not caused by medication. These patient also do not have a history of mania, which is defined as periods of excessive enthusiasm or euphoria due to mental illness. A major depressive episode will last at least two weeks and can include the following symptoms:

– down mood

– Insomnia ( not able to sleep)

– Hypersomnia ( excessive sleeping)

– Drastic change in appetite

– Weight gain or weight loss

– Agitation

– Lack of interest or motivation

– Lack of concentration

– Feeling worthless

– Guilt or other negative feelings

– Reoccurring thoughts about death or suicide

There are psychotherapy and pharmacotherapies available for the treatment of unipolar major depression. For the initial treatment of major depressive disorder, combination of the two treatments are recommended to decrease symptoms and restore baseline functioning.

Another option for treatment would be using pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy on its own. Antidepressants have been commonly used as an effective treatment due to its availability and convenience. If you suspect you might be suffering from a major depressive disorder, you should contact a mental health professional to get a diagnosis and see what the available treatment options are. It is important to consult with a professional because each patient is different and the treatment regime for each patient will be different as well.

There are side effect associated with all medications including antidepressants. These side effects include diarrhea, sexual dysfunction, nausea/vomiting, and weight gain.

There are also alternative treatment methods used for milder episodes of major depressive disorder such as relaxation techniques, positive activities, and exercising to boost mood and motivation in patients.

The diagnosis of unipolar major depression in the geriatric population and pregnant population is different and will be discussed more later.

Severe major depression is when a high number of symptoms are being experienced nearly everyday. Patients who are severely affected will often report suicidal thoughts, show harmful behavior, have impaired functioning, and could develop psychotic symptoms as well. Such patients need to refer to a mental health care provider as soon as possible and might require hospitalization as well.

https://www.mental-md.com/depression/

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