Depression: What You Need to Know

Depression: what you need to know

Depression is an important mental health condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It is a leading cause of disability worldwide and even leads to suicide.

How do you know you have depression

Depression is characterized by persistent low mood, lack of interest and/or pleasure in previously enjoyable activities, reduced energy leading to increased fatigability and diminished activity. It is different from usual mood fluctuations and short lived emotional responses to challenges in everyday life. Other signs and symptoms include,

Reduced concentration and attention

Decreased self esteem and self confidence

Ideas of guilt and unworthiness

Bleak and pessimistic views of the future

Ideas or acts of self harm or suicide

Disturbed sleep (decreased or increased or interrupted, sleepiness even during day time)

Waking in the morning 2 hours or more before the usual time

Decreased or Increased appetite

Weight loss or weight gain

Feeling tired

Unexplained aches and pains

The effects of depression can be long lasting and can significantly affect a person’s ability to live a rewarding life. Affected patients suffer greatly and function poorly at work, school and in the family. Untreated depression could even lead to suicide which is the second leading cause of death in 15-29 year olds.

Causes and Risk factors of depression

There are many factors leading to depression. Usually a combination of genetic predisposition along with psychological and social events leads a person to depression.

Major risk factors include:

Family history of depression

Personality disorders leading to frequent interpersonal conflict and reduced social support

Substance use (alcohol or other drugs)

Stressful life events (exam failure, job loss, unemployment, financial loss, death of loved ones)

Physical or sexual abuse

Diagnosing Depression

If you or some one you know has depression, a clinical psychologist and/or Psychiatrist are the professionals to approach. Make an appointment if symptoms last more than 2 weeks .

Treatment of depression

The happy news is that depression is treatable. The most effective methods of treating depression are Psychotherapy/counseling by a clinical psychologist and antidepressants prescribed by a Psychiatrist. While only psychotherapy/counseling is required for mild cases of depression, combination of Psychotherapy and medications could be necessary for moderate to severe depression. Psychotherapy. Many types of Psychotherapy are used for treating depression such as cognitive behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, metacognitive therapy and much more.

What could happen if depression is not treated

If left untreated, depression can have a devastating impact on your mental and physical health. It may put your life at risk. Complications of untreated depression are

-suicide

-substance use (alcohol or other drugs)

-other neurotic disorders such as anxiety, panic disorder

Failure at school

Job loss

Divorce, Break ups  and other relationship problems

Obesity leading to heart diseases/stroke/diabetes etc