Depression Can Aggravate Other Health Problems

Is depression caused by chemical imbalances in the brain? There is evidence that trauma, childhood illness or abuse can lead to depression later in life. The elderly often suffer from depression caused from living alone, improper diet, medication or other health issues. Depression is often associated with the sadness from the loss of a loved one, or a pet. Natural disasters causing loss of home or property can contribute to feelings of depression.

Doctors disagree regarding the most effective treatment, the medications vary and may be helpful for some people, while others may still suffer on the same medication. Some doctors report that many do not stay on the medication long enough to achieve a full effect of the treatment of depression.

Depression could occur from loss of good eyesight which may cause many of the elderly to lose the ability to perform the simple daily tasks of preparing meals or balancing their check books. They may be depressed and become anti-social from being unable to drive themselves to activities that would allow them to enjoy the social pleasures of life.

Depression is not a part of normal aging, however, when depression strikes it can effect both mental and physical health. Some health problems may invite depression, for example, a diabetic may feel depressed when their blood sugar is out of balance. Depression can also aggravate some health problems and can have a profound effect on a person with memory loss or dementia.

The symptoms of depression that are generally easy to detect are, irritability, crying, restlessness, loss of appetite, digestive problems, anxious feelings or losing interest in life in general.

The feeling of hopelessness can cause a person to be overwhelmed by the simplest daily tasks. A person with short term sadness or mild depression, can be cheered up by an afternoon out, or a visit from family or friends.

When a person reaches the point of not being able to find any happiness, or is in a constant state of loneliness and despair they may be suffering from a deeper depression that needs to be treated by professionals.

Deep depression is much more difficult to overcome, it may require treatment with a combination of physiotherapy and drug medication and may be the only answer for some. Understanding and increased attention from family members and others may also be required.

Prescribed medications are often accompanied with side effects that may deviate between the various types of antidepressant, but the most prescribed medications are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft are all SSRIs, and frequently bring about side effects such as sexual dysfunction, nausea, diarrhea and headaches, and in a few instances thoughts of suicide.

Herbs for depression are usually free of side effects that often accompanies prescription drugs. The active compounds in St. John's Wort help naturally control the feelings of sadness, anxiety and worthlessness.

Siberian Ginseng helps the balance of essential neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Using Siberian Ginseng on a regular basis could result in restored feelings of general well-being. Health and nutrition stores have other herbs available to treat the various forms of depression.

A person suffering from depression should seek the advice of their doctor or nutrition professional to determine the best treatment for their individual health.

Source: www.squidoo.com/herbs-for-depression, http://bulletin.aarp.org