Everybody knows about the emotional symptoms of depression. But depression doesn't just affect your mood. Not only can it make you feel alone or hopeless, it can also affect sleep, appetite, and weight. It can also cause physical pain.
Even people who know they're depressed might not connect some of these symptoms with their condition. Since it's so easy to miss some symptoms of depression, here are questions you can ask your doctor. Print them out and take them to your next appointment. Go in prepared -- it's very easy to forget the questions you wanted to ask when you're actually sitting in the doctor's office.
- What kind of depression do I have?Depression can take many forms. Different types respond better to different sorts of treatment.
- Should my depression be treated with medicines, psychotherapy, or both? How soon should I expect to see results? Depending on the type and severity of symptoms you may have, your doctor can advise you on the best type of treatment. Psychotherapy is often helpful for better coping with feelings related to depression, and finding more effective ways to manage daily stresses that can affect your mood.
- How might depression affect my appetite and weight? Many people notice physical changes because of their depression. Some lose weight because they've lost their appetite or feel sick. Others gain weight because they might stop exercising or turn to food for comfort.
- How could depression affect my sleep? People often associate depression with oversleeping. But depression can also cause insomnia.
- Could my depression be causing me physical pain? Studies have shown that depression can increase the feelings of physical pain, including headaches, back pain, and abdominal pain.
- Could other health conditions be contributing to my symptoms of depression? Conditions like heart disease, cancer, and thyroid problems can trigger or worsen the symptoms of depression. Some can affect how well your antidepressants work.
- Do I need medicine to treat my depression?Medication -- often along with therapy -- can be a highly effective way to treat depression. This can especially be true when symptoms are severe or certain symptoms are present -- such as suicidal thoughts, hopelessness, or a marked inability to feel pleasure.
- What are the side effects of this drug? Does it require medical monitoring with blood tests or blood pressure readings? Is it safe to become pregnant while taking it? Talk over the pros and cons of taking each of the different medication options to treat depression. Ask how any side effects might be managed.
- Do the symptoms of depression need special treatment? In addition to treating depression, you may need to treat specific symptoms as well. For instance, if your depression is making it impossible to sleep, you may need to treat that separately until the full measure of the depression is better controlled.
- What kind of lifestyle changes will help with my symptoms of depression? Ask your doctor about what you can do to ease symptoms. Getting exercise, eating well, avoiding alcohol and illicit drugs, and following a regular routine might help.
- What about alternative treatments? So far, research has not shown that any alternative treatments or dietary supplements can cure depression. However, some may be helpful. So always talk to your doctor before using these treatments.
- What should I do in an emergency? You and your doctor should have a plan for a crisis. If you are ever in danger of hurting yourself, you -- and your family -- need to know what steps to take.
