Depression melancholia History of depression Depression initially was

Depression (melancholia)

History of depression Depression, initially was called “Melancholia”. It first appeared in ancient Mesopotamian texts in the second millennium B. C. during this time period all mental illnesses were thought to be demonic possession, and were attended to by priests. One of the first understanding of the illness was that it was spiritual illness, not a physical one.

Who is affected? Depression affects 19 million Americans. During some point in human life 10%-25% of women and 5%-12% of men are affected by depression.

How common is it? Depression is the leading cause of disability around the world. It affects 6. 7% of American adults each year, and that’s just a fraction of the world. Worldwide it is estimated that 350 million people suffer from depression.

What causes it?

What are the symptoms? Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, hopelessness, angry outbursts, irritability, frustration (even over small matters), loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities (hobbies or sports), sleep disturbance, tiredness, lack of energy, changes in appetite, weight loss, anxiety, and many more.

How is it diagnosed? Through tests and exams doctors can diagnose depression. For example physical tests, lab tests, psychological evaluation, and dsm-5. When the doctor uses lab tests to try to get a diagnoses, he or she may do a blood test called a complete blood count. Or test your thyroid to make sure it’s working properly.

What are the cures? There are no medical treatments that can cure depression but lifestyle changes can help. Exercise, nutrition, sleep, social support, and stress reduction can help greatly.

What are the long term prognosis? Long term depression can bring repeated episodes and can cause suicide if the episode is very severe.

How does it impact youth? The pressures of growing up can be a link to depression. It often starts between ages 15 and 30. Many factors of depression in youth are, family history, personality, life events, and change in the youth’s body.

What is the economic cost of this mental illness? Medicines used to treat depression range in coast from $30 to $200 per month. Also non medical treatments like therapy can be very costly.

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