We all have times when we feel sad, but depression is something that affects your daily life, making it hard to find enjoyment in day-to-day activities. We take a look at what depression is, its causes, and how counselling/therapy can help.
What is Depression ?
Depression is a mood disorder that can take many forms: some days you may find it impossible to get out of bed, while other days you may feel more able to go about your normal daily tasks. Living with depression can be incredibly difficult, both for those suffering and those around them. Due to the nature of the condition, however, seeking help can often be delayed.
Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. It affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, and can impact various aspects of your life, including relationships, work, and physical health.
why do we become depressed ?
Depression can develop due to a combination of factors, and its causes can vary from person to person. Some common factors that contribute to the development of depression include:
Biological Factors: Changes in brain chemistry or genetics can play a role in the onset of depression. Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, may contribute to mood disturbances.
Psychological Factors: Certain personality traits, coping styles, and patterns of thinking can increase vulnerability to depression. Negative thought patterns, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and a history of trauma or abuse are examples of psychological factors that can contribute to depression.
Types of depression
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Also known as clinical depression, MDD is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. Symptoms may interfere with daily functioning and last for weeks or months if left untreated.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): Formerly known as dysthymia, PDD is a chronic form of depression characterized by milder symptoms that persist for two years or longer. While the symptoms may not be as severe as MDD, they can still significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar disorder involves periods of depression alternating with periods of mania or hypomania. During depressive episodes, individuals may experience symptoms similar to those of MDD, while manic or hypomanic episodes involve elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsive behavior.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): SAD is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, typically during the fall and winter months when there is less sunlight. Symptoms may include low energy, oversleeping, weight gain, and social withdrawal, and tend to improve with the arrival of spring or summer.
Postpartum Depression (PPD): PPD is a type of depression that occurs after childbirth, affecting new mothers. Symptoms may include sadness, anxiety, irritability, and difficulty bonding with the baby. PPD can interfere with a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby and requires treatment.
Psychotic Depression: Psychotic depression is characterized by severe depression accompanied by psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions. These symptoms may include false beliefs or perceptions that are disconnected from reality and require specialized treatment.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterized by significant mood disturbances, irritability, and other symptoms in the weeks leading up to menstruation. These symptoms can significantly impair daily functioning and may require treatment.
Depression is a pervasive mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in daily activities. It can impact various aspects of a person’s life, including their relationships, work, and physical health. While depression can be triggered by a combination of factors, including genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological influences, it is a treatable condition. Seeking help from a qualified mental health professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. With the right support, including therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and social support, individuals can manage their symptoms and work towards improving their overall well-being. It’s important for those experiencing symptoms of depression to reach out for support and know that they are not alone in their journey towards healing and recovery.