Every person has highs and lows in their life. When a person is constantly down it may be because they are experiencing depression. Depression is a serious condition that will effect the everyday life of the person experiencing it, and also will effect their loved ones. The good news is that depression can be treated. A person does not have to live with it. Understanding depression is the first step to overcoming it. Everyone should be familiar with the signs, symptoms, causes, and even treatment of depression.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

When a person is constantly feeling sad or constantly going through mood swings, it is a possibility that they are experiencing depression. When a person is feeling depressed they may feel lifeless and empty, nothing matters to them. When a person is depressed it may effect their day-to-day activities like eating, sleeping, working, and even having fun. If a person is experiencing any of these emotions, it would be wise to contact a doctor for help.

Causes of Depression

Depression is caused when the neurotransmitters in the brain are imbalanced. When this imbalance occurs the brain is not able to help the nerve cells communicate with each other, which can effect a person's mood drastically.

A person can become depressed for many reasons. Some possible reasons why someone might become depressed include a traumatic life experience, substance abuse, hormonal change, and even some diseases or medications can cause depression.

Traumatic life experiences are a common cause for depression. The loss of a loved one or a divorce are emotions that are hard for anyone to cope with. Sometimes it is easier to not crawl out of bed than it is to face reality and the pain that it brings.

Treatments for Depression

There are many depression treatments available so it is unnecessary for someone to feel like they have to live with depression. It is very important to recognize and understand depression in order to receive the help that is needed. A person should immediately contact a doctor if they ever experience the overwhelming emotions that depression brings. The doctor will recommend what treatment is in the patients best interest to help cure depression.

Some forms of treatment might include therapy and medication. If a person is recommended to see a mental health specialist, they will have a chance to fully understand why they are experiencing depression. Through therapy a person can learn how to control the emotions of depression. A person may even learn how to prevent depression in the future.

The doctor might feel like medication is needed to help the person get better. Lexapro is one option to help treat depression in adults and adolescents aged 12 and up. Lexapro is only available by a prescription from a doctor. Like any medicine, there are advantages and disadvantages of taking Lexapro. A person should not take this if they are currently taking medicines like Celexa, Orap, and Nardi. The person who is considering taking anti-depressants should always tell their doctor if they are taking, or planning on taking, any over the counter medications.

Depression does not have to take over someones life. Life throws curve balls sometimes and it is okay to feel sad when that happens. With that being said, when a person stops feeling sad and is instead dealing with depression, it is very important to get the treatment that is needed. Depression effects everyone involved, not just the person experiencing it. Loved ones also feel the pressure of these intense emotions. It is good to be aware of the signs and symptoms, and to take action when they occur.