$Unique_ID{BRK01154}
$Pretitle{Mental and Emotional Conditions}
$Title{What Type of Thinking can Cause Depression?}
$Subject{depression description}
$Volume{E-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Type of Thinking can Cause Depression?


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QUESTION:  During the last month I have heard of three people who are
suffering from depression.  It seems as this is a new epidemic, that was not
common in my day.  What type of thinking can make people get this way, and is
there any way to treat it?

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ANSWER:  The problem is indeed a common one and some statistics suggest that
as many as 6 to 10 percent of people visiting their personal physicians may be
affected.  If you wish to consider those with but mild symptoms of sadness,
disinterest or lack of pleasure in daily activity then the number is greater
still.  Depression can result from any chronic or severe illness, and is a
common reaction to stress and disability.  The American Psychiatric
Association lists six types of depressive illness that range from a mild form
to a most severe type that includes psychotic features.  But there are some
types of thinking or "psychological risk factors" that may increase a person's
vulnerability to depression and can make the episode last longer and be more
profound.  People who are low in self esteem may experience a temporary
depressive mood when criticized or insulted.  When a emotional loss has been
suppressed and not allowed to pass through the process of grief, the person
becomes sensitized to loss or rejection or the withdrawal of approval by
coworkers and family.  Individuals who have difficulty in socializing, and are
lonely are at greater risk.  Some people are poor problem-solvers and their
feelings of helplessness in the face of difficult situations can lead to
depression.  Individuals who are unduly anxious, and who magnify or who can
not forget their own mistakes, may fall prey to depression.  But a great deal
can be done to assist these people, and help them work their way through these
depressive attacks.  For mild depression, a few sessions of psychotherapy may
be enough to identify the issue and help work towards overcoming the problem.
When this fails or when the depression is more severe, the use of medication,
antidepressants or anti-anxiety agents, can be most helpful.  However whenever
thoughts of suicide form part of the depression, psychiatric help and care is
a must, if tragedy is to be averted.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
