Depression

Description

Depression or major depressive disorder is a very common mood disorder that negatively affects the way you think, feel, or do things. It is characterized by a constant feeling of sadness, helplessness, and loss of interest. It is important to know that you’re not depressed every time you’re sad, depression is a very serious disease that needs to be addressed properly. It can severely hamper relationships, daily life, and your ability to function. It can affect people of any age and gender but it is more common in teens and females.

Causes

Depression may occur due to any of the following reasons:

Family History: Even though depression is not a purely genetic disease, family history does increase the risk of developing it.
Grief: Sadness after losing a loved one is expected, but it is possible for this to lead to depression in individuals who are at risk.
Abuse: Any form of sexual, physical or emotional abuse increases the risk of developing depression
Life events: Any important life event that is stressful such as moving, losing a job, divorce, etc. can lead to depression in susceptible individuals.
Medication: Some steroids, antiviral drugs (interferon alpha) may increase your likelihood of developing depression
Hormones: Hormonal changes can also cause depression. These include the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy or after delivery.
Personality traits: Being too pessimistic, self-critical or having low self esteem can also increase the chances of developing depression.

Risk factors

Following factors increase your risk of developing depression:

Personality: Pessimistic, self-deprecating, overthinking, and low self-esteem.
Childhood trauma
Sexual abuse
Alcohol abuse
Constant stress
Anti-hypertensive and sleeping pills
Cancer and other serious diseases.

Symptoms

Depression may occur once in a lifetime, or in several episodes. During an episode, symptoms occur throughout the day, and almost every day. The symptoms may include:

Emotional: Feeling like crying, or crying, feeling sad, hopeless or angry over small issues.
Sleep disturbances: Both extremes may occur. Sleeping excessively, or sleeplessness (insomnia)
Appetite: Again, both extremes may occur. Some people eat excessively and end up gaining weight, whereas others may experience a loss of appetite along with weight loss.
Physical symptoms: Symptoms such as headaches and back pain may occur.
Thoughts of suicide, or death may become frequent.
Sluggish body movements, and a generally slow thought process along with trouble in decision making.

Diagnosis

To make a diagnosis, a detailed medical history and physical examination is conducted. Blood tests to rule out other causes and hormonal imbalances may also be required.

Management

Seeking help is essential to treat depression. Therapy in the form of psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or group therapy can be recommended. These methods can help to fight off negative thoughts, create self awareness, and develop a better understanding of your feelings.

Depending on your symptoms, medications may also be prescribed. These include Tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), selective serotonin re uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), etc.

For severe cases, options such as electroconvulsive therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation may be recommended.

When to consult a doctor?

A doctor should be consulted if your symptoms have not improved with the treatment prescribed. A doctor should be consulted immediately if you are experiencing thoughts of hurting yourself, or are indulging in substance abuse (alcohol, smoking, etc.)