Module 6: Recognizing Mental Illness & Clients in Crisis
Depression
An illness affects depression:
- The emotional effects of an illness can bring on depression
- The physical effects of an illness can cause symptoms of depression
- Side effects of medication can cause symptoms of depression
Depression affects illness:
- The stress of depression can bring on an illness or make an illness worse
- Depression can worsen pain and fatigue (tiredness)
Depression is a serious medical condition. Most people need treatment to get better. Depression occurs when the parts of the brain that control mood, thinking, sleep, appetite and behavior do not work normally. There are several symptoms of depression. Depression can affect a person in many ways:
Feelings and Mood
- Ongoing sad, hopeless or "empty" feelings
- Loss of interest in pleasurable activities or hobbies
Sleep and Energy Level
- Feeling tired or having less energy
- Sleeping too much, not being able to sleep, early-morning wakefulness
Thinking
- Having a hard time concentrating, remembering details or making decisions
- Thoughts of suicide
Body
- Overeating or appetite loss
- Ongoing aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not get better with treatment
- Irritability, restlessness