Comorbidity, two or more diseases present at the same time in one individual, is common for people suffering depression. The symptoms of depression may make it more difficult to care for the needs of another disease. Once depression is treated, it is often easier to treat another medical disorder.
Addiction
Depression and its symptoms are difficult when faced on their own, but when coupled with addiction, the battle is multiplied. In an attempt to numb the pain or feel better, individuals may turn to using alcohol or other drugs to self-medicate. However, substance use and abuse can actually trigger depression symptoms and each condition can worsen the other. Suicide or self-harm is a concern for people with depression, but when using alcohol or other drugs, the risk increases greatly. When substances are used regularly, a person can develop an addiction.
The following indicators are warning signs for addiction:
- Developing a tolerance to a substance, increasing the body’s need for more to obtain the same effect.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after using a substance such as nausea, agitation/nervousness, and cold sweats.
- Having remorse after using a substance.
- Relapse
The important thing to remember is that recovery is possible. Counseling, prescription medications, peer support and relapse prevention all contribute to a person’s chances for long-term success. Treatment for both is essential and will help maintain an individual’s motivation and strength to overcome challenges that may arise both short and long term.
Helpful Resources
Anxiety
It is very common for individuals diagnosed with depression to also suffer or be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Anxiety can be a symptom of depression and depression may be triggered by an anxiety disorder. It can often be challenging to differentiate between the two, as they both share some common symptoms. An individual who is depressed or anxious may experience nervousness, irritability, have difficulty concentrating, and have disruptions to their normal eating or sleeping patterns.
*An individual with anxiety may experience the following common symptoms:
- Excessive, irrational, or uncontrollable feelings of worry and dread
- Sensations of panic and uneasiness for no apparent reason
- Obsessive thoughts
- Ritualistic behavior
- Trouble sleeping
- Heart palpitations
- Muscle tension
- Inability to remain calm
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Trouble concentrating
- Rapid breathing, or hyperventilation
- Sweating
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Cold or sweaty hands and feet
- Trembling or shaking
- Stomachache
There are many types of anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Phobias, Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Separation Anxiety, Social Anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, as well as any symptoms of depression, please contact and speak to your physician. Getting a proper diagnosis will ensure you receive the appropriate treatment and help. A combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications have been found to be the most effective in relieving symptoms, along with lifestyle changes to help lower stress levels and enhance personal well-being. Eating healthy, getting an adequate amount of sleep, meditating, exercising on a regular basis, and having trusting and supportive relationships all can be beneficial and support your wellness. It is best to avoid alcohol and other drugs as these can worsen a person’s condition. To learn more about management techniques, click here.
Helpful Resources
- www.anxiety.org Informative website offers a full list of anxiety resources including comprehensive information on latest research, treatment methods, community resources, online tools, and direct access to help.
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America
- National Institute of Mental Health
- Mental Health America
*Symptoms listed were obtained from www.anxiety.org.
Cancer
According to the National Cancer Institute, about 1/4 of cancer patients become depressed. Many symptoms of cancer may mask what may be signs of depression. Some of these include changes in sleep or eating patterns, fatigue, and forgetfulness (American Cancer Society).
*A person may experience the following that can cause extreme stress and place a person at higher risk for developing depression.
- fear of death
- changes in life plans
- changes in body image and self-esteem
- day to day living
- financial and legal concerns
*There are also known risk factors for depression related to cancer:
- learning you have cancer when already depressed for other reasons
- cancer pain that is not well controlled
- advanced cancer
- physically weakened by cancer
- being unmarried (certain types of cancer)
- having pancreatic cancer
- certain medications
- Corticosteroids
- Procarbazine
- L-asparaginase
- Interferon alfa
- Interleukin-2
- Amphotericin B
It is important to remember that no one needs to go through this alone and help is available. Treatment for depression usually includes medication, counseling, or both. Therapy groups for cancer patients may also be helpful and provide additional support from others who may share in similar experiences. Exercise, eating healthy, getting adequate sleep and staying involved in enjoyable activities can also be very beneficial for both physical and psychological wellness. Talking to trusted friends and family members and informing or involving them in your treatment plan, can give you much needed love, care and support. For additional information on depression management, click here.
Helpful Resources:
*Information provided by the National Cancer Institute at http://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/coping/feelings/depression-pdq.
Online Support Groups:
Breast Cancer
Being overwhelmed, worried, and/or feeling sad are all normal feelings to experience upon receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. If you begin to struggle daily, if emotions are feeling out of control and last for two weeks or more, it is time to talk to a healthcare professional. It may be depression. Depression not only affects your mental health and well-being, but can create great difficulty in following cancer treatment care already in place. Talking with your doctor and sharing your feelings and symptoms will ensure you receive the proper diagnosis and care that you need.
There are specific factors related to breast cancer treatment to be aware of that can impact how an individual may feel. These include hormonal changes, aging, and medications. Additionally chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and ovarian shutdown may contribute to depression.
Depression treatment often includes talk therapy, medications, or both. Taking care of yourself during this time is important and there are several ways to help. Talking to trusted family and friends, eating healthy, getting regular exercise, and joining a support group where you may share similar experiences with others can be beneficial. To learn more about depression management, click here.
Helpful Resources
- breastcancer.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing the most reliable, complete, and up-to-date information about breast cancer. This site also offers many discussion groups for questions and connecting with others who may be having similar experiences.
- Susan G. Komen For information, assistance, and emotional support. Support is also available by calling the Komen Breast Care Helpline at 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636).
- Bright Pink National non-profit organization focused on prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young women.
- Avon Foundation for Women Avon Breast Cancer Crusade has been working tirelessly to help prevent, treat, and ultimately eradicate this disease.
Dementia
Dementia and depression can often co-occur. It is not known if one causes the other, and much research is still needed. To date, studies have shown that people suffering from high levels of depression prior to a diagnosis of dementia, show a more rapid decline later on in their thinking and memory. However, as a person develops dementia, depression symptoms were found to be less.
The two share many common symptoms which can make it difficult at times to accurately diagnose. Particularly in the early stages of diagnosis, individuals suffering from either or both may exhibit problems sleeping, difficulty concentrating or memory loss, and a loss of interest in relationships or other pleasurable activities.
In order to receive an accurate diagnosis and the most effective individual treatment plan, it is important for you or a family member to speak with your physician and share details of what you are experiencing or what they may be observing.
Depression may impact a person with Alzheimer’s differently. According to the Mayo Clinic, a person with Alzheimer’s:
- May have symptoms of depression that are less severe
- May experience episodes of depression that don’t last as long or come back as frequently
- Seem less likely to talk of suicide and attempt suicide less often
It is important to understand that depression can greatly decrease a person’s quality of life. Proper medical treatment, counseling during early stages of diagnosis, attending social groups, and exercise can all help a person who may be suffering. If a depression diagnosis is made prior to the onset of dementia, treatment may benefit a person’s cognitive abilities as they age.
Family members may also wish to seek support while caring for a loved one with dementia. It can be emotionally and physically exhausting, so it is important to take time to care for yourself too.
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Heart Disease
Depression can be linked with other medical conditions including heart disease. Although the two often co-occur, it can not be determined if one causes the other. What has been noted, is that individuals who suffer from depression may develop heart disease at a higher rate than the general population. Additionally, patients who have experienced a heart attack and have had no previous symptoms of depression, may become depressed.
There are many concerns when a patient is suffering from depressive symptoms after a heart attack or being diagnosed with heart disease. First, shared symptoms such as low energy, fatigue, and sleep disturbances can often make it difficult to diagnose. It can be challenging for an individual to follow their medication plan or other courses of treatment, thus reducing a person’s overall mental and physical health.
A person may experience a number of things after having a heart attack that can impact their psychological state. Individuals may feel uncertain about their future. Feelings of guilt over previous or continual unhealthy habits and/or embarrassment over diminished physical ability may lead to self-doubt, feelings of worthlessness, and lack of confidence.
If you are concerned you may be depressed, talk to your physician. Proper treatment of depression is essential and can help facilitate lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, exercising, eliminating alcohol, tobacco or other drugs and reduce the risk of future heart problems. It’s also so important to reach out for support. Talk to trusted family members or friends about your concerns. Recovery programs are also available to help individuals return to normal activity levels, which can boost confidence and improve mood.
Helpful Resources: