Depression: Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment

Neuro Sciences | by Dr. Ajay Aggarwal | Published on 18/06/2024

Introduction

In this fast-paced and modern world, mental health nowadays is gaining the required attention and depression is one condition that stands out as one of the most common yet misinterpreted. This condition affects millions of people across the world. Depression is not only about feeling sad or experiencing rough times, but is a serious mental health problem impacting the thinking, feelings, and regular activities of an individual. If you suspect that you or your loved ones might be suffering from depression, then book your appointment with one of the best mental health professionals in Kolkata at The CMRI. You will find the most experienced and highly skilled experts who ensure the proper diagnosis and effective treatment solutions. 

In this guide, we will take a deep dive into comprehending the aspects of depression including its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. So, stay till the end. Please note that this blog is for informative purposes only and does not replace the relevance of a doctor’s consultation. 

What is Depression?

Depression also referred to as a major depressive disorder affects the thinking, actions, and feelings of an individual. Depression is constant and can substantially disrupt the ability of an individual to function normally. It is not like normal mood changes or is not a short-lived emotional reaction that a person experiences in their daily lives. This mental condition is determined by constant sad feelings, losing interest in everything, feelings of hopelessness, and not enjoying life or activities a person used to enjoy before. Depression also causes certain physical and emotional issues reducing an individual’s efficiency in working at home or in the office. 

What are the Types of Depression?

Depression occurs in several forms, and comprehending the varied types of depression can assist the health expert in diagnosing and effective treatment solutions. Here is how the types of depression are categorized: 

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): It is determined by a constant depressive mood or losing interest in activities, leading to disability in everyday life. 
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A chronic form of depression with symptoms that last for at least two years but are not as severe as major depression.
• Bipolar Disorder: It includes depression episodes accompanying maniac or hypomania episodes. 
• Postpartum Depression: This type occurs after women give birth to a child and is known to be the most serious form of depression. 
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): This type often occurs at a particular time in the year, usually during winter due to less natural sunlight.
• Psychotic Depression: Severe depression accompanied by some form of psychosis, such as hallucinations or delusions.

What are Depression Symptoms?

The symptoms of depression differ from moderate to serious ones and include:

• Constant sadness, anxiousness, or feeling of emptiness
• Losing interest or enjoyment in any recreational activities
• Reduced energy or exhaustion
• Problems while concentrating, remembering, or making informed decisions
• Insomnia, early awakening, or oversleeping
• Losing appetite or weight changes
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
• Uneasiness or irritation 
• Physical symptoms not responding to treatment, like headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain

What Causes Depression?

The exact cause of depression is not known, but it is an outcome of a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Let’s have a look at these contributors:

• Genetics: Depression often results due to a genetic predisposition.
• Biological Differences: People with depression experience physical alterations in their brains.
• Brain Chemistry: It involves imbalances in neurotransmitters, chemicals transmitting messages in the brain that lead to depression.
• Hormones: Alterations in the body's hormonal balances triggering or contributing to depression.
• Trauma and Stress: Past physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, major life modifications, or stressful occurrences are also the main triggers of depression.
• Medical Conditions: Chronic diseases, medications, and substance abuse also are the causes of depression.

How is Depression Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of depression includes a thorough assessment by a healthcare expert. Here is the process followed to confirm the diagnosis:

• Physical Exam: Physical assessment and lab tests are performed to exclude the possibility of other medical conditions. 
• Psychiatric assessment: A mental health expert starts the diagnosis by asking the patient about symptoms they are experiencing, feelings, thoughts, and behavior changes. 

What are Depression Treatment Options?

Several effective treatments for depression are there that assist in managing the symptoms and improving the quality of life. Here are these treatment options: 

• Psychotherapy: It combines different therapies such as Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and other types of talk therapy.
• Medications: Doctors often recommend drugs like antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) to treat depression.
• Lifestyle Changes: It is recommended to include regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and changing sleep cycle as it can substantially help in depression management.
• Mind-Body Techniques: Depression patients should be involved in mind-body techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga as they are beneficial in reducing depression symptoms.
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): This is an option for those patients suffering from severe depression and not responding to other treatments, ECT can be an option.
• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): It is a non-invasive procedure involving magnetic fields for nerve cell stimulation in the brain.

Conclusion

Depression is an intricate and multifarious disorder affecting millions of individuals across the world. Comprehending depression types, symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatment options is essential for the management of this condition in an efficient manner. With the adequate involvement of therapy, medication, lifestyle modifications, and support, patients with depression can lead fulfilling and productive lives. If you or someone you know is battling with depression, consult a professional immediately. Always keep in mind that depression is treatable, and with the right support, you can overcome the challenges that come with it achieving an improved quality of life.

Faq -

 

Is depression curable?

With the right therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, depression can be managed effectively but some people can experience recurrent occurrences throughout their lives.

Is depression genetic?

Yes, depression involves a genetic constituent, with a higher risk in patients with a family history of the condition.

Can depression cause weight loss?

There is no right answer to this but depression in some people might lead to weight loss because of reduced appetite and alterations in eating patterns.

Can depression cause memory loss?

Yes, depression might lead to memory loss and problems while trying to concentrate due to its influence on cognitive functions.

Is depression a mental illness?

Yes, depression is a mental illness identified by consistent episodes or feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and several physical or emotional issues.

Can depression be genetic?

Yes, depression can be influenced by genetic factors, making people with a family history more vulnerable to experiencing this condition.

Does depression cause sleepiness?

Yes, depression leads to excessive sleepiness or severe tiredness, including insomnia or interrupted sleep changes.