SUICIDE WARNING
SINGS
People who are
depressed are more likely to attempt suicide. Warning signs include talking
about death or suicide, threatening to hurt people, or engaging in aggressive or
risky behavior. Anyone who appears suicidal should be taking very seriously. Do
not hesitate to call 911 if you have plan to commit suicide or notice someone on
the verge or go to the emergency room for immediate treatment.
Anyone can become
depressed, but many experts believe genetics play a role. Having a parent or
sibling with depression increases your risk of developing the disorder. Women
are twice as likely as men to become depressed.
Doctors aren’t sure
what causes depression, but a prominent theory is altered brain structure and
chemical function. Chemicals called neurotransmitters become unbalanced. What
pushes these chemicals off course? One possibility is the stress of a traumatic
event, such as losing a loved one or a job. Other triggers could include
certain medications, alcohol or substance abuse, hormonal changes, or even the
season.
Postpartum
Depression
The “baby blues”
strikes as many as three out of four new mothers. But nearly 12o/o develops a
more intense dark mood that lingers even as their baby thrives. This is known
as postpartum depression, and the symptoms are very similar to those of major
depression. An important difference is that the baby’s well-being is also at
stake. A depressed mother may have trouble enjoying and bonding with her
infant.
Depression in
Children
Depression is
likely to affect 2o/o of grade school kids and about one in 10 teenagers. It
interfeers with the ability to play, make friends, and complete schoolwork.
Symptoms are similar to depression in adults, but some children may appear
angry or engage in risky behavior, called”acting out”. Depression can be
difficult to diagnose in children.
By...Belinda Yeboah
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