We often use the word depression in our day to day conversation. The word depressed is occasionally used to describe a person’s emotional state. For instance, “She seems depressed these days.” However, such uses of the word are separate from the clinical disorder that is depression. The DSM5 has multiple disorders listed under the category of depressive disorders. We will be focusing specifically on the symptoms of depression that may form a part of different disorders.
Going back: History of Depression
Our modern concept of depression has a long history behind it. The Greek philosopher Hippocrates was one of the first people to discuss, “melancholia,” which is explained as an excess of black bile in the body. According to him, the emotional dimensions of grief and fear defined the state. Cicero, a Roman philosopher, presented a view unusual for his era. He thought that psychological factors like anger, fear, and grief influenced melancholia. In the modern era, Kraepelin and Freud helped shape the modern concept of depression. Sigmund Freud describes Melancholia (Depression) as something in which our sense of self or the ‘I’ness of our being has become empty and we cannot hold on to it. His paper ‘Mourning and Melancholia’ can provide useful insights.
Let us understand the clinical depression of modern age
Depression Symptoms: More Than Just Sadness
The symptoms of depression cannot be reduced to just sadness or low mood. While fitting people in boxes, one must not forget that they are unique. The symptoms may manifest or occur in somewhat different ways in different people. Symptoms may not always be visible in the beginning. Thus, it is important to look beyond the obvious. Some of the symptoms according to the DSM, include:
- Depressed mood most of the day like feeling sad, empty or being tearful
- Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in various activities
- Changes in weight, significant weight loss when not dieting or weight gain and changes in appetite
- Difficulty in falling asleep or excessive sleeping
- Loss of energy nearly every day.
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty in concentrating, or indecisiveness, nearly every day.
- Recurrent thoughts of death, recurrent suicidal ideation and suicide attempts
These symptoms may occur with high frequency and regularity within a short period, indicating the need for professional help.
Understanding Causes of Depression
Depression is hard to pin down to a single cause. We can see it as a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. All these play a role in varying degrees, depending on the individual. Some possible causes include:
Genetics:
Studies suggest that individuals with a family history of depression may have a higher risk of developing the condition.
Biochemical Factors:
This includes imbalances in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Faulty regulation of these chemicals can affect how we regulate our mood and our reactions to stressors.
Psychosocial Stressors:
Life events like trauma, loss of a loved one, relationship difficulties, financial strain, or chronic stress can be seen as an inescapable part of life. However, depression can be triggered or exacerbated by these events.
Personality Traits:
Our vulnerability to depression is also related to our personality traits. For instance, a person with low self esteem and chronic pessimism is more likely to develop depression than a person on the opposite end of the spectrum.
Chronic Medical Conditions:
Chronic conditions cause lifelong stress and physical impact on the body. This makes a person more vulnerable to depression.
Environmental Factors:
Early life experiences can increase the risk of developing depression later in life. For instance, exposure to childhood abuse, neglect, or other forms of trauma. A lack of social support can also lead to the development of these symptoms.
A Path to Healing: Treatment of Depression
In the face of depression, hopelessness can be a common reaction. With the right treatment, it becomes a challenge that can be overcome. We should never forget that everyone’s journey is different. Some may progress faster than others but the end destination is always the same.
The treatment for depression begins with psychotherapy. A therapist should develop an understanding of the individual and discuss their preferences. This knowledge should be used to pick the right kind of therapy. For instance, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to help individuals challenge their negative thoughts and behaviors. Inter-Personal Therapy (IPT) works on improving communication and relationships. Psychodynamic Therapy tries to look for unresolved feelings from past experiences. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a cognitive approach along with mindfulness practices such as meditation. This helps people stay present and manage their emotions better. Check our blog to know more about the science behind therapies https://www.unitedwecare.com/the-science-behind-therapy-how-different-approaches-can-help-your-mental-health/112522/
Depending on how severe the problem is, the therapy can be combined with medication prescribed by a psychiatrist to stabilise any dysregulation of neurotransmitters.
Moving on from professional treatment, we should also focus on a person’s lifestyle. We often underestimate the importance of a healthy diet, regular exercise and good sleep habits. These strongly contribute to a healthy mind and body. Finally, a strong social support network has a big impact on recovery. The support received from family, friends, or even support groups, can help a person know they’re not alone. Humans are social animals. Supporting one another in times of difficulty is a salient characteristic of our species.
Conclusion
Depression is one of the more common psychological disorders. Its symptoms are often overlooked till they get severe. It is important to use the word depression in a responsible manner as labels and assumptions can be harmful. The road to healing from this disorder is not straight. It has its own twists and turns that need to be overcome. With the right treatment and social support, this journey can become much easier. Timely support plays a crucial role in successful treatment. As humans, we can indicate to our loved ones our openness and willingness to support. While there are no certainties, our approachability can help them feel comfortable enough to open up.
