Mount Pleasant Magazine Sept/Oct 2021

101 www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com | www. ReadMPM. com | www. I LoveMountPl easant . com psychopharmacologist who knew just the right cocktail — a combination of medications — for me, and my depression went back into remission. People with one depressive disorder often suffer from various forms. I’ve been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, dysthymia, seasonal affective disorder and either cyclothymia or bipolar II — hypomania, rather than mania — with the depression component always being the more severe problem for me. SIGNS OF DEPRESSION The symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe and may include: • Feeling depressed, sad, empty or hopeless nearly every day for at least a couple weeks. • Unusual irritability or difficulty controlling anger. • Ongoing trouble with sleeping or sleeping more than usual. • An increase or decrease in appetite or significant unexplained weight loss or gain. • Loss of interest or pleasure in all or most activities. • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions. • Feelings of fatigue or loss of energy. • Excessive or inappropriate feelings of guilt or worthlessness. • Visible psychomotor slowing down or agitation. • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, with or without a plan, or attempted suicide. TYPES OF DEPRESSION There are many classifications, or types, of depression. The following are a few of the more common. In any given year, major depressive disorder affects nearly seven percent of the United States population, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health. During a major depressive episode, almost all aspects of a person’s life are affected. Someone suffering from major depression may lack the motivation to do anything, including such necessities as taking a shower. Because of the impairment, both work and personal life suffer. In addition to the symptoms noted above, 20% of those with major depression will also feature ® Let Veris give you a free second look for missed COVID money! FormerlyMcCayKiddyCPAs   Our team is finding thousands of dollars left on the table for COVID financial relief for businesses. Contact us to help you maximize some of these benefits. Mount Pleasant (843) 881-4477 • West Ashley (843) 226-5400 *Opening Soon! Summerville (843) 376-5640