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Fetterman's Hospitalization Sheds Light On Clinical Depression: Understanding The Illness And Its Symptoms
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Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania voluntarily checked himself into a hospital on Thursday to receive treatment for clinical depression.
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Fetterman has experienced depression on and off during his life, but it only became severe in recent weeks, according to his chief of staff.
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In May, Fetterman suffered a stroke while he faced off against Republican Mehmet Oz for the Senate seat.
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Fetterman's wife, Gisele Barreto Fetterman, tweeted that she is proud of him for asking for help and getting the care he needs.
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Kristen Carpenter, chief psychologist in the department of psychiatry and behavioral health at Ohio State University College of Medicine, commended Fetterman for seeking help quickly.
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Depression after a major illness such as stroke is not uncommon, according to the American Stroke Association.
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Biochemical changes within the brain structure after a stroke may put individuals more at risk for depression.
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No one knows the exact cause for depression, and why it is worse in some people than others.
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Having a family member with depression raises the risk of developing the condition.
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Traumatic experiences such as physical abuse or sexual assault, financial problems, and major life changes can also increase the risk of depression.
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Depression is more common after having a heart attack or being diagnosed with cancer or chronic pain.
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Substance abuse, such as alcoholism, is also linked to depressive symptoms.
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Many medications, including common ones such as beta blockers and hormonal contraceptives, can cause feelings of depression.
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Symptoms of depression include ongoing sadness or anxiety, feelings of hopelessness or guilt, fatigue, changes in appetite and weight, and thoughts of suicide.
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Depression can be mild, moderate, or severe, with clinical depression being the more severe form.
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To be diagnosed with clinical depression, an individual must have five depression symptoms every day, nearly all day, for at least 2 weeks.
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Treatments for depression include antidepressant medications, psychological therapy, or a combination of both.
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Antidepressants typically take between four to eight weeks to work.
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For treatment-resistant depression, other medications such as esketamine or transcranial magnetic stimulation may be used.
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Getting proper treatment through psychotherapy and/or medication is key to remitting depression symptoms.