Depression : causes, symptoms, types & treatment, prevention
Depression is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home.
- Written : Rabiu Rabiu (Dr. Cracker)
- Medically Reviewed : Aminu salisu M.D
- Editor : Victoria Solomon (B.A English language)
• What is depression?
Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It can affect how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Depression can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home.
Depression is not a normal part of the aging process. It is not a sign of weakness, and it is not something you can just "snap out of." Depression is a real illness that requires treatment.
• What are the types of depression?
The most common type of depression is major depressive disorder. Other types of depression include:
- Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia): A chronic form of depression that lasts for at least two years.
- Bipolar disorder: A mental disorder that causes extreme mood swings, including emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression).
- Prenatal and postpartum depression: Depression that occurs during or after pregnancy.
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): A severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that causes significant mood swings, irritability, and depression.
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): A type of depression that occurs during the winter months when there is less daylight.
• Who does depression affect?
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status. However, it is more common in women than in men. Depression is also more common in people with chronic health conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
• How common is depression?
Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 17.3 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode in 2020. That represents 6.7% of the U.S. adult population.
• What are the symptoms of depression?
The symptoms of depression can vary from person to person and can range in severity. Some of the most common symptoms of depression include:
- Feeling sad or depressed most of the time
- Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Feeling tired or having low energy
- Difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions
- Restlessness or feeling slowed down
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Thoughts of death or suicide
• What causes depression?
The exact cause of depression is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.
Some of the possible risk factors for depression include:
- Family history of depression
- Personal history of traumatic events, such as childhood abuse or neglect
- Major life changes, such as job loss, divorce, or the death of a loved one
- Chronic health conditions
- Certain medications
- Substance abuse
- Certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem or pessimism
• How is depression diagnosed?
There is no single test to diagnose depression. Instead, a doctor will typically diagnose depression based on a physical exam, a psychiatric evaluation, and a review of your medical history and symptoms.
During the psychiatric evaluation, the doctor will ask you a series of questions about your mood, thoughts, feelings, and behavior. The doctor may also use a depression rating scale to assess your symptoms.
• How is depression treated?
There are a number of effective treatments for depression, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
- Medication: Antidepressants are the most commonly prescribed type of medication for depression. Antidepressants work by changing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain.
- Therapy: Therapy can help you identify and challenge the negative thoughts and beliefs that may be contributing to your depression. Therapy can also teach you coping skills and strategies for managing your symptoms.
- Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep, can also help improve your mood and reduce your symptoms of depression.
In some cases, a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes may be the most effective treatment for depression.
• What are the complications of depression?
If left untreated, depression can lead to a number of serious complications, including:
- Substance abuse
- Problems at work or school
- Relationship problems
- Social isolation
- Suicide
• How Can I prevent depression?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent depression, but there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk, including:
• Getting regular exercise
Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting and pain-relieving effects. Exercise can also help to improve your sleep quality, which is important for mental health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
• Eating a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet can help to improve your mood and energy levels. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine and alcohol. Instead, focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Getting enough sleep
Most adults need around 7-8 hours of sleep per night. When you don't get enough sleep, you are more likely to experience mood swings, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Make sleep a priority by establishing a regular sleep schedule and sticking to it as much as possible.
• Connecting with others
Social support is important for mental health. Make time for activities that you enjoy with people who care about you. You may also want to consider joining a support group for people with depression.
• Managing stress
Stress can trigger depression episodes. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
• Seeking professional help
If you are struggling with depression, don't be afraid to seek professional help. A therapist can teach you coping skills and strategies for managing your symptoms. A doctor may also prescribe medication if needed.
• Conclusion
Depression is a common and serious medical illness, but it is treatable. If you are struggling with depression, there are a number of things you can do to get help, including talking to your doctor, seeing a therapist, and making lifestyle changes.
Additional tips for preventing depression
- Learn to say no to commitments that you don't have time for or that will cause you too much stress.
- Set realistic goals for yourself and don't be too hard on yourself when you make mistakes.
- Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
- Avoid negative people and situations.
- Do things that you enjoy and that make you feel good.
• References
- National Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007/
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/what-is-depression/
