According to the World Health Organization, nearly 121 million people throughout the world suffer from depression. This illness is characterized by persistent and chronic feelings of sadness that can cause a serious disruption in a person's everyday life. Since this mental illness is so prevalent within the population, the following discusses the symptoms and treatment of depression, in addition to treatment options and coping skills.
Symptoms
The depressive symptoms associated with this illness will affect people differently and will vary on the severity of the condition. With this in mind, the most common symptoms of depression include continuous feelings of sadness and emptiness, loss of energy, reduced interest in regular activities, irregular sleeping patterns, thoughts of suicide and feeling hopeless.
Causes
It is difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of depression, as it is highly likely that it occurs due to a combination of factors. One potential cause of this mental illness is a lowered amount of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers within the brain. In some cases, individuals who display chronic depressive symptoms often have imbalanced amounts of serotonin and norepinephrine.
There may also be a genetic component to depression, as it is believed that specific genes may predispose certain people to developing the condition. Chronic substance abuse and certain medications may also result in an individual feeling depressed. Other potential causes include trauma, abuse, job loss, death of a loved one, conflict and chronic diseases.
Treatment
Treatment for depression usually involves a combination of antidepressants and psychotherapy support. Antidepressant medications such as tricyclics, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and monoamine oxidase inhibitors work directly on neurotransmitters and aim to regulate mood. While it may take up to eight weeks for antidepressants to take full effect, they are generally effective at reducing depressive symptoms.
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is another treatment option that is available. This form of therapy attempts to help a depressed individual develop coping strategies and eliminate negative thoughts that can contribute to feeling depressed. Depression doctors in Utah and other psychotherapists offer different forms of psychotherapy, including individual, group therapy and family therapy.
Coping
Regular exercise and getting plenty of sleep can help to improve mood and lower stress levels, which may help a person feel less depressed. Joining a support group may also be helpful, since it will provide an opportunity to connect with and receive support from people who are experiencing the same mental illness. Talking with and interacting with friends and family members can also help depressed individuals cope and reduce feelings of isolation.
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