Introduction
“Depression is being color-blind and constantly told how colorful the world is.”
-Atticus [1]
Depression is a complex and multifaceted condition characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness. Interpersonal relationships can play a significant role in developing and maintaining depression, as individuals who experience negative social interactions may be at an increased risk of developing depressive symptoms. Understanding the interpersonal dynamics and patterns of depression can be essential for identifying and addressing the condition’s underlying causes.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a mood disorder affecting an individual’s emotional, cognitive, and physical state. Indications of depression include hopelessness, loss of interest, and persistent sadness in once enjoyable activities. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression has biological, environmental, and genetic causes. [2]
Symptoms may include changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. Depression is a treatable condition; therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes such as exercise and stress reduction can effectively manage symptoms.
What Are The Symptoms Of Depression?
Depression is a mental health disorder that can cause many symptoms affecting a person’s emotional, cognitive, and physical state. Some of the most common symptoms of depression, as per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5), include: [3]
- Persistent feelings of emptiness, sadness, and hopelessness
- Loss of interest in once enjoyable activities
- Struggling to make decisions or concentrate
- Low energy, feelings of lethargy, and fatigue
- Changes in feelings of hunger, including weight loss or gain
- Disruptions in sleep patterns, such as lack of sleep or excessive sleeping
- Feelings of worthlessness or extreme guilt
- Frequent thoughts of death or suicide
Individuals must be experiencing five or more symptoms, which must be present for at least two weeks for the diagnosis.
All those diagnosed with depression may not experience all symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can differ from individual to individual. Additionally, these symptoms can have other causes and do not necessarily indicate depression. Therefore, seeking a professional evaluation is essential.
What Are The Causes Of Depression?
Depression is a complex mental health disorder whose causes are not entirely known. However, according to research, depression is caused by t a combination of genetic, environmental, and biological factors. Some of the most common causes of depression include: [4]
- Genetics: Studies have shown that depression can occur generation after generation, and specific genes may aggravate a person’s risk of developing the disorder.
- Brain Chemistry: Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that regulate mood. An imbalance in these chemicals can contribute to depression.
- Environmental Factors: Abuse, trauma, neglect, and significant changes in life, such as the death of a loved one or job loss, can trigger depression.
- Medical Conditions: Illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, can lead to a person developing depression.
- Substance Abuse: Over-usage of alcohol and drugs can elevate the chances of developing depression. People with depression tend to use drugs and alcohol to cope.
However, not everyone with depression will have the exact underlying causes, as depression can have a combination of causes. Additionally, some people may develop depression without any apparent reason.
What Is The Treatment For Depression?
The treatment for depression depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying causes of the disorder. Some of the most common treatments for depression include: [5]
- Therapy: Several types of treatment, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy, can effectively treat depression by helping a person change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
- Medications: Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can help manage symptoms of depression. However, medication should be prescribed and monitored only by a psychiatrist.
- Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercises, a healthy diet, and stress reduction techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can be effective in managing symptoms of depression and enhancing overall health.
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): This non-invasive treatment uses magnetic fields to activate nerve cells in the brain and can help treat depression in some cases.
- Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): ECT is a process that uses electric currents to stimulate the brain and can be efficacious in treating severe depression that does not respond to other treatments.
Essentially, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to treatment for depression. Therefore, a healthcare professional should evaluate a person’s situation to determine the best course of treatment.
How To Deal With Depression?
Dealing with depression can be challenging, but several strategies can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. Here are some ways to deal with depression: [6]
- Seek Professional Help: If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it’s essential to seek professional help. A mental health expert can provide a correct diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as therapy like CBT.
- Practice Self-Care: Self-care activities, such as getting enough sleep, regular exercise, practicing relaxation techniques, and eating a healthy diet, can help manage symptoms of depression.
- Connect With Others: Social support is essential for managing depression. It’s important to maintain relationships with friends and family and consider joining a support group for people with depression.
- Set Realistic Goals: Setting realistic goals can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment, improving mood and self-esteem.
- Avoid Drugs And Alcohol: Using drugs and alcohol to cope with depression can worsen symptoms and increase the risk of addiction.
- Engage In Activities You Enjoy: Participating in hobbies and activities, you enjoy can provide a sense of pleasure and improve your mood.
Although these strategies may not work for everyone and depression can be challenging to manage, seeking professional help and practicing self-care can improve overall well-being and reduce the impact of depression.
Conclusion
Depression is a challenging mental health disorder that can notably impact a person’s quality of life. By recognizing interpersonal relationships’ role in depression, individuals and healthcare professionals can develop strategies to manage and treat the condition effectively. Addressing the underlying interpersonal dynamics and patterns involved in depression can be essential in achieving long-term recovery and improving overall well-being.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of depression, consult mental health experts at United We Care! At United We Care, a team of wellness and mental health experts will guide you with the best methods for well-being.
References
[1] “A quote from Love Her Wild,” Quote by Atticus Poetry: “Depression is being colorblind and constantly t…” https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/8373709-depression-is-being-colorblind-and-constantly-told-how-colorful-the
[2] “Depression,” National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml
[3] American Psychiatric Association, “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,” May 2013, Published, doi: 10.1176/app.books.9780890425596.
[4] “What causes depression? – Harvard Health,” Harvard Health, Jun. 09, 2009. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/what-causes-depression
[5] “Depression (major depressive disorder) – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic,” Depression (major depressive disorder) – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic, Oct. 14, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356013
[6] “Depression | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness,” Depression | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness. https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Depression
