Depression may be caused by one or more physical, environmental or psychological factors--brain chemical imbalances, negative thinking patterns, other medical or psychiatric conditions, drugs or alcohol abuse, certain medications or genetics. Environmental factors--significant loss, death of a loved one, divorce, relocation, financial problems or continued exposure to violence--may increase the risk of developing depression in individuals already susceptible to it. The stress of deployment--a military tour of duty--begins with the preparation period and continues through the first three to six months after the tour has ended, according to Army psychiatrist Simon Pincus in a 2004 report for the U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard. Friends and family members should be alert to the signs of depression and encourage the service-member to contact a health-care provider. Depression can be treated with medication, psychiatric counseling or a combination of therapies.
Mental and Emotional Changes
Short-term mental and emotional reactions--insomnia, nightmares, flashbacks, anger, irritability--are normal after return from a war zone, according to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, but depression is more serious and lasts longer than sadness or grief. Depressed individuals may feel excessively guilty, worthless, helpless or hopeless about themselves, the world and the future. Problems with focusing, paying attention, remembering and making decisions are common. Suicidal thoughts are also common and should be taken seriously.
Behavioral Changes
Loss of interest in activities that once gave pleasure is characteristic of depression. The depressed individual loses interest in hobbies, sex or other activities he once enjoyed. He may avoid family and friends, sleep too much or too little, have problems at work or school, and laugh or cry inappropriately. Increased use of tobacco, alcohol, drugs or caffeine is common, as is eating more or less than usual. The individual may engage in risky behaviors--driving too fast, engaging in dangerous sports activities and gambling--without concern for the consequences.
Physical Complaints
Depression often causes physical symptoms. A depressed patient may complain of decreased energy, excessive fatigue, feeling slow or sluggish, headaches, stomach problems or chronic pain that does not improve with treatment. Weight loss or weight gain may occur.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Report Finds Gaps in Health Services for U.S. Veterans
- American Psychiatric Association: Military
- Deployment Health Clinical Center: Major Depressive Disorder
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Mental Health Effects of Serving in Afghanistan and Iraq
- American Psychiatric Association: Let's Talk Facts About Depression
