Depression
About Depression
Depression is a mental disorder that negatively influences your mood to feel extreme sadness and worthlessness. It shows persistent symptoms of low mood for 2 weeks, affecting a person’s daily activities.
It is seen to affect people of all age groups and genders. But there are differences in presentation, severity, and prognosis of the illness. People in the age group of 20-40 are considered the most vulnerable. While it is highest amongst individuals between 18 and 25, the disorder does not spare children, adolescents, and the elderly population.
As per reports, depression affects more females than males. Sometimes, it has auto-remission, of course, and reduces its symptoms gradually but many people suffer badly. A depressive episode can also be a part of bipolar illness.
Prevalence
Prevalence of depression ranges from 20-25% in women and 7-12% in men. It is higher among adult females (9%) as compared to males (6%) and adolescents (9-10%).
Symptoms
- Low energy despite good physical health
- Persistent low mood and/or bad temper
- Low interest-level in previously pleasurable activities
- Decreased interaction with friends and family
- Lowered interest in studying, working, sexual activities & exercises
- Frequent anger outbursts and aggressive behaviour
- Irregular sleep & sleep pattern disturbances
- Increase or loss of appetite and weight loss
- The Feeling of worthlessness, helplessness & hopelessness
- Frequent feeling of guilt and being a burden on others
- Frequent death wishes or suicidal thoughts
Apart from this, the patient may also suffer from body pain, headache, decreased attention and concentration, problems in taking decisions, forgetfulness, anxiety, and restlessness.
How is depression different from sadness?
Sadness is a temporary condition and is associated with some stressors. It goes away automatically in just a few days. It does not have a lasting effect on your everyday activities. Besides, your appetite, sleep and other interests remain the same. However, in depression, you go through a persistent low mood.
Possible reasons of depression:
Most of the episodes are not associated with any kind of stressors. However, relationship problems, financial losses, job-related problems, or dissatisfaction may be the reasons.
Medical illnesses can also cause depression, like postpartum, hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cancer, few neurological illnesses, and many more. A few biochemical changes like low serotonin, low dopamine level, and increased cortisol level are usually seen.
How it affects?
If remain untreated, it can affect a person’s married life, professional life, relationships with family, friends, financial stability, leading to decreased performances, hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts.
Myths about the treatment
People believe medicines are very addictive and usually contain hypnotics. They are also under the impression that depression is only a fragment of their mind and that they will automatically start feeling better if they travel, eat good, or party with friends.
Treatment:
Yes, depression is treatable. With the help of Talking Therapies, antidepressant medications or a combination of these, we can reduce the suffering, the duration, and prevent possible relapses in the future.
Although some of the antidepressants are extremely helpful, Psychotherapy with a well-qualified psychologist is a very vital part of the treatment. Cognitive behaviour therapy, stress management, improvement of coping skills, mindfulness, meditation, and Yoga is also quite helpful.
How UDGAM will help in treatment:
People try their best to keep calm and correct their mood and depression but fail to manage these ailments. Team UDAGM, the clinical psychologist expert in counselling, will be your friend that only aims at bringing a lasting smile on your face. We will help in various ways to manage your depression, while keeping your symptoms in check.