Sometimes the Symptoms of Depression are Overlooked: What you can do

Posted on June 8, 2010

“Doctors fail to recognize severe depression in half the patients who suffer it.”

So began an article published in the Science section of the New York Times on December 18, 1989.

According to a July, 2009 article in Time Magazine, little has changed over the last twenty years. “In a review of 41 previous studies involving more than 50,000 patients in developed nations around the world, the authors found that general practitioners make frequent mistakes, missing true cases of depression about half the time.”

What can you do to ensure that if you are suffering from depression, you are diagnosed and treated correctly?

Recognize the Symptoms Yourself
It’s important for you to recognize the emotional, psychological, and physical symptoms of depression.
Physical symptoms include:

• Constant fatigue
• Weight loss or gain
• Dizziness, nausea, lightheaded
• Problems sleeping or changes in sleep patterns
• Digestive problems
• Aches and pains, such as chest pain, headaches, muscle  aches, and joint and back pain

Emotional and Psychological Symptoms include:

• A general feeling of emptiness,  emotional numbness, sadness
• Unprovoked anger or irritability
• Unfounded feelings of guilt or uselessness
• Low self-esteem
• Suicidal thoughts

Make Sure Your Doctor Takes Your Symptoms Seriously
When you see a doctor, it’s important to be your own best advocate.
The symptoms of depression can be confused with symptoms of other ailments or dismissed as unimportant. If you believe your doctor downplays or minimizes the symptoms you describe, be proactive. Explain to the doctor how your symptoms are affecting your life. If necessary, get a second opinion. And don’t hide your symptoms from your PCP. He or she can’t help you if you aren’t honest and forthcoming about how you feel.

Take Action to Get Treatment for Depression
There are many treatments available for depression, ranging from counseling and therapy to a wide variety of anti-depressant medications. Your PCP can refer you to a behavioral health provider if necessary. Your PCP may prescribe medication for you. There are also holistic and alternative treatments available, such as changes in diet, herbal remedies, and a large body of stress management techniques. Be sure to let your doctor know about any herbal remedies you’re taking or alternative treatment you’re using.

To sum up, be aware of your own mental health, make sure your doctor knows how you feel, and take action if necessary so that your depression does not go untreated.

Categories: Summer 2010