Content
Depression can be identified by the initial presence, at low intensity, of symptoms such as lack of energy and drowsiness during the day, for a period longer than 2 consecutive weeks.
However, the amount of symptoms increases and intensifies over time, causing social disability and making the classic symptoms of depression more evident, such as:
- Lack of desire to perform activities that gave pleasure;
- Lack of energy and constant tiredness;
- Feeling of emptiness or sadness;
- Irritability and slowness;
- Pain and changes in the body;
- Sleep problems and weight changes;
- Loss of appetite;
- Lack of concentration;
- Thoughts of death and suicide;
- Alcohol and drug abuse.
If this disease is suspected, it is recommended to see a general practitioner, as laboratory tests will be necessary to rule out any organic disease. Thereafter, the person will be referred to a psychologist or psychiatrist who will initiate a detailed assessment to confirm the diagnosis and guide the appropriate treatment. See how the diagnosis of depression is confirmed and how treatment is done.
Main characteristics at each stage of life
Although the classic symptoms of depression are present at any age, there are characteristics that can vary according to each stage of life:
1. Depression in childhood
Child depression can be the most difficult to recognize, as signs of social isolation are easily confused with tantrums and shyness. However, characteristic signs such as bed wetting, aggression and learning difficulties can help in the diagnosis.
Therefore, if these symptoms are present, it is important that the parents report changes in the child's behavior to the pediatrician, who will specifically assess the clinical condition, to confirm whether it is really depression or other changes, such as anxiety or hyperactivity, for example. , so that, if necessary, the child is taken to a specialist, such as a child psychologist or psychiatrist, to receive the appropriate treatment.
See how is the treatment of childhood depression.
2. Depression in adolescence
The specific signs that indicate depression at this stage, in addition to the classic symptoms, are constant irritability, memory failures, lack of self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness, in addition to the classic symptoms.
However, changes in behavior and mood are common in adolescence, as it is the phase with the most hormonal changes during life. However, adolescent depression can be triggered by several situations, such as the consumption of drugs and alcohol and a family history of depression, for example, in addition to the environmental factor that can cause excessive charges and generate doubts.
Therefore, it is important that in case of suspicion, the psychiatrist is sought to make the correct diagnosis and initiate the appropriate treatment, since the worsening of depression in adolescence is associated with alcohol and drug abuse in adulthood, factors that can compromise the person's health and quality of life.
3. Depression in pregnancy or postpartum
The variation in mood in this period is normal and the result of hormonal changes common in pregnancy or postpartum and can be characterized by changes in mood, anxiety and sadness, which can lead to disinterest in pregnancy and lack of interest in the baby after birth.
However, if the depressed mood is persistent and lasts for more than 1 month during pregnancy and in the 4 or 6 weeks or 3 to 4 months after the baby is born, it should be reported to the obstetrician who accompanies the pregnancy or puerperium, so that the most appropriate professional is indicated to accompany the treatment. See the online test that can help you know if it's postpartum depression.
Usually depression in pregnancy or in the postpartum period can arise in cases where financial insecurity, fear, indecision and social and personal pressure are present, in addition to a traumatic experience during labor.
4. Depression in the elderly
Depression in the elderly can arise from hormonal and environmental factors, however, it is still of unknown causes. The characteristic symptoms of this phase of life are neglect of oneself such as not wanting to bathe, not making use of routine medicines if there is one and skipping meals, together with all the classic symptoms.
In addition, when left untreated, depression in the elderly can bring serious health consequences, such as loss of autonomy to perform activities, changes in memory, social isolation, in addition to favoring the worsening of diseases.
Thus, if there is suspicion of depression in the elderly, it is recommended to seek a geriatrician, so that the necessary exams can be carried out and the appropriate treatment initiated.