Today’s society isn’t always mom-friendly. Due to the overwhelming pressures associated with raising children, maintaining careers and homemaking, it’s not uncommon for mothers to experience the symptoms of depression. The following details depression in women, and includes tips on identifying and addressing symptoms.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Depression
Depression is a very personal illness; therefore, it can affect different people in vastly different ways. Some women experience severe symptoms that are easily detectable, while others’ symptoms may be vague and difficult to identify. However, while symptoms of depression may vary, they often include the following:
• Pervasive sadness. This symptom is often characterized by crying spells and feelings of hopelessness, guilt, anxiety, etc.
• Social isolation. If you’ve been neglecting relationships and social activities in favor of spending time alone, you may be suffering from the effects of depression.
• Chronic fatigue. While fatigue is common among mothers who don’t have depression, those with this condition may experience severe lethargy and lack of energy.
• Changes in sleep habits. This can include insomnia as well as sleeping too much.
• Problems concerning memory, concentration and decision-making.
• Irritability and frustration. Depression often leads to personal conflict; e.g., frequent arguments with spouses, friends, coworkers, etc.
• Physical aches and pains, including joint stiffness, muscle soreness, chronic headaches, etc.
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm. If this symptom is present, seeking immediate treatment is essential. For women with suicidal thoughts, medication is often necessary. Antidepressants are available by prescription and can be purchased from online pharmacies such as Pharmarama.
Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices
In many cases, the symptoms of depression can be addressed through healthy lifestyle changes. The following tips can help improve mild to moderate symptoms:
• Make an effort to maintain relationships. Feelings of sadness and anxiety can often be remedied through social contact. When you’re feeling blue, call up your girlfriends for a night out, enjoy a date night with your partner, or spend the afternoon with your children.
• Exercise. We all know the importance of exercise. But in addition to all the physical advantages, did you know that regular workouts can help elevate mood and boost feelings of well-being? It’s true! 30 minutes of exercise a day, three or four days a week can help regulate natural, mood-enhancing chemicals in your brain. These chemicals can help stop depression in its tracks, while also helping you to look and feel your absolute best. As an added bonus, child-friendly workouts can promote bonding with your kiddos.
• Make time for yourself. No matter how hectic your schedule, carving out some personal time is essential to health. To fight the symptoms of depression, explore your own interests and take part in activities you find enjoyable. Even a few minutes of personal time a day can really help drive away the negative emotions associated with depression.
• Eat well. An unhealthy diet can only exacerbate the fatigue and discomfort associated with depression. To boost energy and well-being, avoid processed foods as well as excess starches, sugars, fats and calories.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your symptoms are severe and interfere with your daily life, seeking immediate help is necessary to health and well-being. Most commonly, depression is treated through a combination of prescription medications and talk therapy. When used together, these methods address the immediate symptoms of depression while also promoting long-term psychological health and wellness.