Depression (excessive sadness)

Description A mental state or c...

Description

A mental state or chronic psychiatric disorder characterized by excessive feelings of sadness, loneliness, despair, helplessness, low self-esteem, and self-reproach. Depression is different than normal sadness because it prevents the person from functioning normally in their daily life. Other signs of depression include a lack of energy or initiative (psychomotor retardation), agitation, withdrawal from social contact, insomnia, decreased appetite and/or a vegetative state. The symptoms can become severe enough to cause self-harm or suicide. Any patient having thoughts their life is not worth living needs to get immediate medical help.

Symptoms

Patients suffering from the following symptoms may have depression: excessive sadness, problems falling asleep, sleeping too much, problems concentrating, uncontrollable negative thoughts, no appetite, short temper, feeling helpless, increase in drinking alcohol, increase reckless behavior, increased fatigue, thoughts life isn't worth living.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests may include: thyroid function tests, electrolytes, or a brain CT scan.

Tests:
Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Thyroid function tests

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Geriatric Psychiatry, Family Practice, Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry

Treatment

Antidepressants and/or psychotherapy are the mainstays of treatment. Psychiatric hospitalizations may be needed for severe symptoms and for those with suicidal thoughts. For patients who fail to respond to medications and psychotherapy electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) may be an option. Any patient who feels life is not worth living needs to seek medical care immediately.