Depression is a very omnipresent subject; but the fact of it being widespread and not well-known is rather ironic.In medical terms,depression is a chemical imbalance,but that figure of speech doesn’t capture how complex the disease is.Yes,depression is a disease with real symptoms.Hence,people cannot ‘snap out’ of it.
There are 12 different types of it.The four most common types of depression are discussed below:
Major Depression
This is a state where a dark feeling consumes all hope and one loses interest in activities, even ones that are usually pleasurable. People with major depression experience symptoms most of the day,on a regular basis..Symptoms include fatigue,feelings of worthlessness or guilt,indecisiveness,insomnia,restlessness,recurring thoughts of death or suicide,significant weight loss or gain etc.
Persistent Depressive Disorder
Formerly called "dysthymia," it refers to low mood that has lasted for at least two years but may not reach the intensity of major depression. Many people with this type of depression are able to function day to day, but feel low or joyless most of the time. Other depressive symptoms may include appetite and sleep changes, low energy, low self-esteem,or hopelessness.
Bipolar Disorder
People with bipolar disorder experience episodes of depression. But they also go through periods of unusual high energy or activity. Manic symptoms seem to be the complete opposite of depression symptoms: grandiose ideas, unrealistically high self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, thoughts and activity at higher speed, and ramped-up pursuit of pleasure including overspending, and risk taking. Being manic can lead to self-destructive behavior, and is usually followed by a period of depression. Medications for bipolar disorder are different from those prescribed for other types of depression, but can be very effective at stabilizing a person's mood.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
This type of depression can be seen during fall and winter. The mood swings may result from alterations in the body's natural daily rhythms, in the eyes' sensitivity to light, or in how chemical messengers like serotonin and melatonin function. The main treatment for this type of depression is light therapy, which involves daily sessions sitting close to an intense light source. The usual treatments for depression, such as psychotherapy and medication, may also be effective.
Types of Depression in Females
Research states that women are at a higher risk for general depression, they are also at risk for two different types of depression that are influenced by reproductive hormones—perinatal depression and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).Perinatal depression includes major and minor depressive episodes that occur during pregnancy or in the first 12 months after delivery, this isalso known as postpartum depression.Premenstrual Dysphoric Depression is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome, or PMS.
The Causes of Depression:
Even though doctors fail to fully comprehend the reasons behind the illness,there are many possible causes, and sometimes, various factors combined to trigger symptoms. Factors that are likely to play a role include genetic features,changes in the brain’s neurotransmitter levels,environmental factors,psychological and social factors and additional conditions,such as bipolar disorder.
Treatment for Depression :
While there is no cure for depression, majority of the people with depression can overcome it with proper diagnosis and treatment.If an individual is experiencing symptoms related to depression, he or she is advised to see a physician or a psychiatrist.This acts as the first step for addressing mental health needs.
Different methods of treatment are mentioned below:
Support: This involves discussing practical solutions and educating family members about the patient’s condition.
Psychotherapy: Also known as talking therapy, which includes one-to-one counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Drug treatment: A doctor may prescribe antidepressants.
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): It is a medical treatment most commonly used for patients with severe major depression or bipolar disorder who have not responded to other treatments.
There are other ways that can help people to overcome this disease.People can lighten up their mood by exercising on a daily basis. Getting sufficient and good quality sleep regularly, following a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol can also help reduce the symptoms.
Depression may lead to serious medical conditions if it is not treated or can trigger underlying illnesses.People suffering from depression are also at high risk for committing suicide.
Warning signs of suicide with depression may be:
- A sudden switch from sadness to extreme calmness (a person ‘appears’ to be happy)
- Always talking or thinking about death
- Signs of self-harms, or any self-destruction habits
- Saying things like ‘ It would be better if I weren’t here’
- Talking about suicide
If you know someone showing any one of these symptoms, you should call your local suicide hotline or contact a mental health professional right away .
If you think someone is at immediate risk of self-harm or hurting another person then:
- Contact your local emergency number.
- Stay with the person until help arrives.
- Remove any guns, knives,medications,or things that may cause harm
- Listen, but don’t judge, argue, threaten, or yell.
Remember, there is always a way out . Just keep on holding on.
For those who are not suffering this kind of illness we are lucky. Because I know how hard it is,my father suffer this for how many months and I know it's not easy. Stay on their sides and talk to them each day it will be a big help .
Hlw dear your description skills is so high keep it up