Depression


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Depression and heart disease
Depression and heart disease
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Depression and insomnia
Depression and the menstrual cycle
Depression and the menstrual cycle
Depression in children
Alternative Names

Blues; Discouragement; Gloom; Mood changes; Sadness; Melancholy


Prevention

Healthy lifestyle habits can help prevent depression, or lessen the chances of it happening again. These habits include eating properly, sleeping adequately, exercising regularly, learning to relax, and not drinking alcohol or using drugs.

Counseling may help you through times of grief, stress, or low mood. Family therapy may be particularly important for teens who feel blue.

For elderly or others who feel socially isolated or lonely, try volunteering or getting involved in group activities.


References


Moore D, Jefferson J.  Major Depressive Disorder. In: Handbook of Medical Psychiatry. 2nd ed. Mosby, Inc., 2004; 134-141.

Screening for Depression Recommendations and Rationale . US Preventive Services Task Force, Guidelines from Guide to Clinical Preventive Services: 3rd ed. Rockville, Md. US Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Health Care Policy and Research; May 1, 2002.

World Health Organization. The World Health Report 2001 - Mental Health: New Understanding, New Hope. Geneva World Health Organization, 2001.

Guide to Clinical Preventive Services: Screening for Depression, Recommendations and Rationale. Rockville, Md. US Preventive Services Task Force, Dept of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Health Care Policy and Research. Ann Intern Med. 2002; 136(10): 760–764.

Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Major Depressive Disorder , 2 nd Ed. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association; 2000.



Review Date: 06/06/2005
Reviewed By: Paul Ballas, D.O., Department of Psychiatry, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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