Anonymous asked this question on 4/26/2000:
I feel like there is something wrong with me but i'm not quite sure where to start and who to get help from, if needed. My first question is what are some sure signs of depression? I find myself having extreme mood swings where i'll be extremely happy and then i'll want to cry forever. I don't look at myself in a very good light, always seeing the negative in myself. Sometimes I feel completely alone, worthless, etc... and other times I'm the happiest girl on this earth..
Could you please help me with what steps I need to take to become a happier person?
Desertphile gave this response on 4/27/2000:
Hi. Please note that I am NOT a doctor.
The signs of depression tend to be different for the type of depression. Depression can be "mild" (called Dysthemia), clinical depression, or "bi-polar" which is often called manic depressive or "rapid cycling." Since you report that you are often very happy and then very sad, that is one sign of "manic depressive."
Fortunately there are treateans available for just that concern. Please, please, please ask your physician (general practitioner) to give you a physical check up and see if it is "female" problems, since hormone problems in women can look a lot like bi-polar symptoms. Your physician will know what to look for--- I usually suggest a woman doctor for women because women doctors tend to know more about such things, regardless of the amount of education.
If your physician thinks you may be experiencing a "episode" of "manic depression" she may wish to referr you to a specialist. Manic depression is a cause of concern, but it is also treatable with such medications as Lithium--- a natural element foiund on the Periodic Table of Elements: not created by doctors.
The following WWW site seems like a good place for more information. I have no connection to the site, but I just like what it has to say.
http://concernedcounseling.com/
By the way, I recently read an essay written by a woman with the same symptoms you describe. It is very well done. If you like I can find the URL fr that essay and send it to you.
Please care for yourself and see your Obgyn.
Anonymous asked this follow-up question on
4/28/2000: Please do try to find the URL, and thanks so much for your help...
The average rating for this answer is 5.
Anonymous rated this answer a 5.