Mental Health and Psychology

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DEPRESSION And MANAGEMENT

It's the feeling of extreme sadness, dejection and hopelessness that interferes with one's daily  function in social and occupational dimensions

*The Scale of the Problem*

*The World Health Organization* estimates that 280 million people globally are living with depressive disorders. For African women – who are affected at approximately 1.5 times the rate of men – depression is a leading cause of disability. Yet, due to the lack of investment in mental health services, approximately 85% of people in low-income countries receive no treatment.

*AETIOLOGY(CAUSES)*

#Brain chemistry- Imbalance neurotransmitters eg serotonin.
#Genetics
#Stressful Life Events eg.  Bereavement, lost of job, trauma, divorce, lack of support, chronic,etc.
#Substance Intoxication eg Alcohol

*CLASSIFICATIONS*

#Clinical Depression(major)
#Persistent Depressive Disorder
#Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder
#Depressive Disorders due to another Medical Condition eg. Heart disease, Hypothyroidism,  Parkinson's disease.

*SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS*

#Sleep disturbances
#Chronic fatigue
#Loss of sexual drive
#Neglect of personal hygiene
#Low self esteem
#Lack of concentration
#Feeling of worthlessness
#Social withdrawal
#Looks sad
#Anxiety and tension
#Suicidal ideation, etc.
#Changes in appetite or weight.

*TREATMENT*
#Psychotherapy
#Medications - antidepressants
#Complementary medicine eg. Hypnosis, Acupuncture
#Brain Stimulation Therapy


*MANAGEMENT*
#Reassurance
#Promote good sleep by providing comfortable bed and serene environment
#Establish a good nurse-patient relationship
#Encourage patient to talk and be nonjudgmental
#Closely observe patient
#Ensure good personal hygiene
#Involve clinical psychologist
#Administer prescribed drugs and observed for therapeutic effect, etc.

*What You Can Do To Help Yourself*

*Try to keep doing activities you used to enjoy
#Stay connected to friends and family
#Exercise regularly, even if it's just a short walk
#Stick to regular eating and sleeping habits as much as possible
#Avoid or cut down on alcohol and don't use illicit drugs, which can make depression worse
#Talk to someone you trust about your feelings
#Seek help from a healthcare provider.

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