$Unique_ID{BRK00696}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{The Symptoms of Depression}
$Subject{depression Mental Emotional Conditions condition irritable upset
rapidly Headaches headache indigestion constipation unworthy guilty unwanted
unneeded fatigue crying Depressed sad}
$Volume{E-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


The Symptoms of Depression


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QUESTION:  I visited my sister in her brand new home last week.  While she put
on a great show that all was well, I noticed some actions of my brother in law
that are worrisome.  He just wasn't right.  Would you please list some of the
symptoms of depression that might help me solve this problem?

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ANSWER:  A short visit may not have been adequate enough to provide you with
the clues you are seeking, but I will give you some important information to
think about.  Depressed patients always seem to be sad, and may even break
into tears over little things, while watching an incident on a television show
that is not particularly distressing to others.  They feel tired most of the
time, even when there has been adequate rest and little work.  They are
usually irritable, become upset rapidly and tend to be bothered by little
items and insignificant incidents.  They are not much fun to be around as they
have no enthusiasm for new projects, no feelings of enjoyment even for
pastimes they relished.  Headaches are frequent symptoms, as are complaints
about indigestion and constipation.  Loss of interest in food may lead to
weight loss.  When they do talk, they may express sentiments of feeling
unworthy or guilty, unwanted and unneeded.  Frankly speaking, this is not a
condition in which you should be playing amateur detective.  Get back on that
phone and call your sister for an honest and concerned discussion.  If these
symptoms are present, and she may be aware of others, it's time for
professional help, for depression can be helped, in many ways, effectively and
rapidly.  To ignore it may invite tragedy.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.