We all feel sad at times when faced with life’s disappointments and difficulties. Normal sadness however, passes. If you find yourself feeling down or sad most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression. Depression is a common but treatable mood disorder. Depression can cause severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.
Signs and symptoms of depression include:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty” mood
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Loss of interest in pleasurable activities
- Irritability
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Decreased energy or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Difficulty sleeping, early-morning waking, or oversleeping
- Appetite and/or weight changes
- Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
Causes for Major Depressive Disorder
Brain chemistry: The chemical structure of the brain is different from someone who isn’t afflicted with the disorder. Neurotransmitters responsible for depression may be out of balance and therefore don’t respond the way they should. Certain medications can assist with restoring this balance.
Hormonal irregularities: When the body’s hormones aren’t balanced properly, clinical depression can be triggered. Bodily changes such as pregnancy, thyroid problems, menopause or other conditions may be responsible.
Risk factors also include:
- Personal or family history of depression
- Major life changes, trauma, or stress
- Certain physical illnesses and medications.
- Alcohol and drug use can cause depression by creating chemical imbalances in the brain or can exacerbate an existing underlying depression
Other types of depression include:
Seasonal Affect Disorder occurs during the winter months when there is less natural sunlight. This depression generally lifts during spring and summer.
Postpartum Depression is more serious than the common “baby blues” most women experience after giving birth. The feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety and exhaustion that accompany postpartum depression may make it difficult for these new mothers to complete daily activities for themselves or their babies.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) is a depression that lasts for at least two years. A person diagnosed with dysthymia may have episodes of major depression along with persistent periods of less severe depression.
Treatment and Therapy
Medications: antidepressants are medications used to treat depression by regulating brain chemistry.
Therapy: An episode of depression is often triggered by the experience of an emotional crisis. Medication in combination with psychotherapy (talk therapy) is an effective way to address the precipitating and genetic factors contributing to an episode of depression and to explore the underlying causes, stresses and patterns of thought and behavior that contribute and exacerbate feelings of distress.
