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Definition Of Depression

depression is based on a medical model that assumes all depressive symptoms are fundamentally the presentation of an 'illness'. Much like the presentation of any common physical illness in an individual that can be tested and treated by scientific methods, protocols regarding how to treat depression from the same medical model has been formulated over the years. It is considered a mental illness and is listed as such in modern organizations such as the National Institute of Mental Health and the American Psychiatric Association. There are overlapping psychological and physical issues that are agreed to be causative factors by most professionals.

Since the definition of depression includes the consideration of physical aspects that may play a role either as causative or resultant factors, it is hard to define whether the 'dog wags the tail or the tail wags the dog' in many case studies. This has led to a disagreement at times between secular and Christian philosophies that include the diagnosis and treatment for depression. The secular world view tends to state that depression is an illness thereby implying that there is relatively little human responsibility in dealing with the symptomatic behavior associated with the problem. On the other hand, some philosophies that purport to embrace a Christian world view can further burden a suffering person's guilt and condemnation while neglecting to include all causative factors.

Professional counselors, medical doctors, psychologists, psychiatrists, pastors and Christian leaders can all be found that have varying viewpoints on the definition of depression as well as how to help those who suffer. For those who deal with depression in a family member or in themselves and want help in coping, there are some general tips to keep in mind while looking for the best treatment for depression. First, determine if symptoms such as hopelessness, sadness, fatigue, lethargy or inability to function continue for over two consecutive weeks. Of course, if there are any acute symptoms such as suicidal thoughts and complete disconnection from reality, it is wise to get crisis help immediately through a hospital or doctor's office. For those who experience symptoms for over two weeks, help should be sought out in order to deal with the underlying causes.

A general way to determine if depressive episodes are related to physical or emotional problems is to determine if there are any circumstantial factors that spurred the onset. For those who have had a death in the family, job loss, family disappointments, shattered aspirations or other tragic circumstances, extreme moodiness and inability to function can be most likely related to reactions to circumstantial factors. "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds." (Psalm 147:3) If, however, a depressive episode occurs without any change to routine circumstances in a person's life, many professionals suggest that a thorough health examination should be the start of protocols on how to treat depression in these patients. Some depressive symptoms are related to body changes due to hormones, hyperthyroidism, and certain diseases or illnesses. Many times, patients who are properly treated for their physical problems will return to their usual state of personality and may need no further treatments. Other individuals may struggle with personal or relationship issues that slowly draw them into a state of depressive responses which can be mild or severe.

There are counselors, pastors and other professionals who understand how to assist people in discovering the wellspring of relief that can be found by applying biblical principles to daily living. This can be a very viable and successful understanding of how to treat depression in those who properly respond. Sometimes depressive symptoms are so severe that they can cause physical problems to occur such as digestive problems, a suppressed immune system, pain and headaches. A complicated overlap occurs when it's hard to determine if depression has caused a physical illness or a physical illness is causing depression. There are Christian clinics and medical professionals that specialize in combining the application of spiritual principles and physical treatments to the total person. Many times in advanced cases of depressive disorders, hospitalization or outpatient therapy is needed to initially stabilize the person for subsequent follow up over a period of time.

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