The first step towards overcoming depression is admitting that you have a problem. It feels scary, but it’s the first step to recovery. The sad truth is that more than 18% of the population experiences bouts of depression in a given year. If you are one of them, chances are you are probably not alone either. Whether we realize it or not, everyone goes through periods where everything seems to be going wrong: a relationship ends, a job loss occurs, or self-esteem takes one big hit and your mood plummets. No matter how resilient we might seem on the outside, if our inner world is falling apart as well, we can’t help but feel depressed as well. But what exactly is depression? And why do some people get depressed while others don’t? There are so many questions without answers – and this makes things worse when you experience an emotional setback like depression for the first time. But there’s hope for those who have been down for too long and want to find their way out again.
What is depression?
Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects approximately 17 percent of the population at some point during their lifetime. People who have depression experience significant feelings of sadness, hopelessness and reduced energy almost every day for more than two weeks. While most people can get through a blues episode and return to normal within a few weeks, for those with depression, the condition is chronic and lasts longer than one year. For people with unipolar depression, there is no cure. Although you can learn ways to manage the condition, it can’t be cured. For those with bipolar disorder, a combination of medications, therapy and lifestyle changes can greatly improve the symptoms of depression. If you have clinical depression, you may also experience anxiety, suicidal thoughts and chronic insomnia. These symptoms are serious and should be taken seriously by your doctor and the medical community.
Types of depression
– Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): According to the American Psychiatric Association, MDD is characterized by a persistent depressed mood, diminished interest or pleasure in daily activities, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and thoughts of death or suicide. You may have had a single episode of MDD that has lasted longer than two weeks or have had recurring episodes of depression. – Dysthymia: Dysthymia is a milder form of depression characterized by long-term low mood, decreased energy, and reduced concentration. Unlike MDD, dysthymia is more common than major depression and can last for years. – Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of severe highs and lows in mood, energy, activity levels and cognitive functioning. These episodes can last minutes, hours or even longer than a week. People with bipolar disorder also experience periods of mania, where they feel excessively happy, energetic and excited about life. – Seasonal Affective Disorder: Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that is associated with the seasons. The most common form of depression in the fall and winter, seasonal affective disorder is also linked to the lack of sunlight in the fall and winter. – Postpartum Depression: This type of depression is most common in women who have just given birth. The hormone changes that occur after childbirth can increase the risk of depression. This type of depression is temporary and should improve in a few weeks.
Causes of depression
While there are many reasons why someone might develop depression, the specific causes of the condition vary from person to person. However, depression can be greatly reduced by adopting certain lifestyle changes. Research shows that depression is often caused by a combination of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. One of the most common causes of depression is a deficiency in essential nutrients. This is because the body needs a certain level of nutrients to function optimally, and when these levels are too low, it changes the way the brain works. Studies have found that deficiencies in vitamins B1 (thiamine), B6, B9 and B12 are often linked with depression, as are deficiencies in vitamin C, magnesium and folic acid. Depressed individuals often have low levels of zinc, iron, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids as well as low levels of tryptophan, an amino acid that is needed for the production of melatonin, serotonin and endorphins.
Treatments for depression
There are many treatment options for depression, including medications, psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy and electro-acupuncture. Antidepressants are the most commonly prescribed type of treatment for depression because people respond well to them, their side effects are minimal, and there are many different options to choose from. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed type of antidepressant, but there are many different options available. People with mild to moderate depression often respond well to a short-term course of antidepressants that can be taken for six to eight weeks, while those with more severe cases of depression may need to take antidepressants for longer periods of time. There are many different types of antidepressants, each with their own set of side effects and effectiveness, which can be confusing for people who are new to the treatment.
Coping with depression
There is no “cure” for depression or any other mental health condition. While many people experience a bout of depression occasionally, for some people it can last for years. The good news is that most people who experience depression will get better with treatment. There are many ways to cope with depression, including talking to a therapist, separating yourself from people who make you feel bad, exercise and therapy, getting enough sleep, journaling and maintaining a healthy weight. A healthy diet high in complex carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats can help regulate your mood. Food that is high in sugar, salt and fats will cause your blood pressure to rise and you’ll feel anxious and stressed. Try to eat a balanced diet that is low in sugar, salt and fat and try to avoid processed foods.
In Conclusion
Depression is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be challenging to cope with, and it can be helpful to talk to a trusted friend or family member about how you’re feeling. You can also talk to your doctor or other health care provider about how you’re coping with your depression. There are many ways to feel better and live a healthier life with depression, and it’s important not to feel alone or ashamed. You can reach out and get help, and it is possible to overcome this difficult condition.