Double Depression
Double Depression - What is It?
For most people a diagnosis of depression seems bad enough - for others, depression may become worse, leading to hopelessness. When a person starts to feel completely hopeless, they may find their symptoms worsen, especially if doctors diagnose a patient with "double depression".
Double depression is not a new concept, but people are starting to learn more about it. Double depression begins when a person develops dysthymia. This is a milder form of major depression that is often long-lasting or persistent. A person with dysthymia may have many of the ordinary symptoms of depression, only they experience them less harshly than someone with clinical depression.
Sometimes, a person with dysthymia develops one or more episodes of major depression. When this happens, a doctor often diagnoses the patient with double depression. People that have double depression, according to recent studies, are more at risk for feelings of hopelessness and despair. This is worthy of notice, because these feelings are more likely to cause one to feel suicidal.
Does Double Depression Mean Doubly Doomed?
If someone does develop double depression, they are not "doubly doomed" as one might think. While having a major depressive episode in the midst of dysthymia can be a bad experience, if a patient consults with their healthcare provider immediately together the two of them can decide on a treatment plan that will help alleviate symptoms and prevent severe feelings of hopelessness.
Many doctors refer patients with double depression to a psychotherapist for treatment. Often psychotherapists concentrate on specific forms of therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, to help patients with double depression cope with the feelings of hopelessness they have.
Cognitive behavior therapy is a combined approach to therapy, one that often addresses any behaviors that may contribute to someone's feelings, and also teaches people to recognize the emotions causing feelings of depression, hopelessness and related feelings. Often a therapist will encourage patients to try positive affirmations, which are statements that help a person think more positively about life and their purpose and contribution in life.
No matter the type of treatment plan you and your doctor decide on, if you suffer from double depression make sure you call your doctor as soon as you can and take action to start feeling better.
Are There Other Treatments for Double Depression?
Sometimes medication alone or therapy alone is not enough to help patients fully overcome double depression. Key to one's recovery may be treating the underlying dysthymia, so a person is less likely to suffer future or recurring episodes of major depression.
Many times, lifestyle habits can affect one's mental health. Your doctor or therapist may recommend you review your lifestyle and adopt healthier habits. When you take care of your body, you are more likely to recover faster from physical and emotional illnesses.
Exercise, eating well and getting plenty of sleep at night are all important to one's recovery when coping with double depression. You may also find talking with others, by way of a support group, doubly helpful when treating dysthymia and major depression. Remember, you are never alone. Talk it out, and you will find the support you need to overcome your illness and lead the best life possible.