Depression is a serious disorder that can take a terrible toll on you and your family. Depression often gets worse if it is left untreated, resulting in emotional, behavioral and health problems that affect every area of your life.
COMPLICATIONS
- Excess weight or obesity - One of the symptoms of depression is a change is appetite which can include overeating. This can lead to obesity which is a risk for heart disease and diabetes.
- Alcohol or drug misuse - Substance abuse is very common in depression. It’s important to monitor for signs of alcohol and drug abuse and get help as soon as possible.
- Anxiety, panic disorder or social phobia – Depression often comes with other mental health conditions which, if left untreated, can make depression more difficult to treat.
- Family conflicts, relationship difficulties, and work or school problems - This can be a trigger of depression or be a perpetuating factor. Get a social worker involved to help facilitate such issues.
- Social isolation – It is very easy to socially isolate yourself when in a depressive state. This is usually not beneficial. Social isolation can worsen the symptoms and fuel hopelessness.
- Suicidal feelings, suicide attempts or suicide – If you are struggling with this, know that it is a symptom of your condition and can be addressed. Please speak to your doctor or a family member. There are many people who can assist you with this.
Written by Dr Ruusa Shivute | Health Window
Reference: Park LT, Zarate CA Jr. Depression in the Primary Care Setting. N Engl J Med. 2019 Feb 7;380(6):559-568
