"The best piece of advice that I've received to manage my MS is to take care of myself."
Depression
Depression or Mood Swings
Depression is a widespread problem, occurring not just in people who have MS. It's important to understand that depression is a term used broadly when it comes to people with MS. It is often used to describe a wide range of emotions, from feeling down for a few hours one day to clinical depression, which may last for months. People with MS, as well as their friends and family, need to know that depression, in whatever form, is common.
Depression does not mean that you are "weak." You should not feel ashamed about being depressed or feel the need to hide it. You cannot control or prevent depression.
We still do not fully understand the nature of depression in MS. But, in recent years, we have learned much about it:
- Stress is a major factor in depression. The stress of dealing with a diagnosis of a chronic disease and the possibility of disability can bring on depression.
- The disease process of MS may cause depression. If MS damages areas of the brain that are involved in emotional expression and control, a variety of behavioral changes can result, including depression.
- Depression may also be associated with MS-related changes that occur in the immune or neuroendocrine systems.
- Depression can also be a side effect of some medications.
People with MS often go through a period of grieving. They may grieve the losses they experience due to MS, such as walking or working. This mourning may look like depression. Grief eventually goes away on its own. So, it's important to recognize the differences between mild, everyday "depression"; grief; and clinical depression. Clinical depression is a serious condition that can last from at least 2 weeks to several months. It produces flare-ups known as "episodes."
Symptoms of a major depressive episode
- Sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities
- Loss of appetite or increase in appetite
- Sleep disturbances, either insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Agitation or slowing in behavior
- Fatigue (feelings of tiredness)
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Problems with thinking or concentration
- Persistent thoughts of death or suicide
Dealing with depression
Depression can be diagnosed only by a health care professional. Therapy or medication may be needed. A health care professional can treat the condition and prevent an even deeper depression that is harder to treat. It may be necessary to try different medications and different doses before an effective medication, or combination of medications, is found. If you suspect you are suffering from depression, please talk with your health care provider. He or she can get you the help you need.
