Understanding Depression

Depression is a prevalent yet serious mood disorder. While it is natural to experience sadness in challenging times, depression often persists even as circumstances improve. It can evoke intense, lasting emotions that seem disproportionate to one’s situation, affecting daily life, relationships, and overall wellbeing.

Generally, depression lasts for at least two weeks and involves more than sadness alone. Without treatment, it can intensify, sometimes resulting in self-harm or even suicide.

Types of Depression

Several forms of depression arise from specific situations or conditions:

• Major Depressive Disorder (Clinical Depression): Characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness lasting at least two weeks, often accompanied by sleep disturbances, a loss of interest in enjoyable activities, and changes in appetite.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): Also known as dysthymia, PDD involves milder depressive symptoms that extend for a minimum of two years.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): SAD symptoms typically arise in autumn or winter, triggered by reduced daylight, and often improve in spring or summer.
• Perinatal Depression: Includes both prenatal depression (during pregnancy) and postpartum depression (after childbirth).
• Depression with Psychotic Symptoms: This severe form of depression includes psychotic symptoms such as delusions (distressing false beliefs) or hallucinations (sensing things that are not present).

Recognising Symptoms of Depression

Depression symptoms can vary in intensity and complexity among individuals, with common symptoms including:

• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
• Loss of enjoyment in previously pleasurable activities
• Increased irritability or frustration
• Low energy or persistent fatigue
• Insomnia or excessive sleep
• Difficulty concentrating and decision-making
• Unexplained physical pain, including headaches or digestive issues
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Anxiety or excessive worry
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Decreased interest in sexual activities

Diagnosing Depression

A diagnosis is often confirmed when an individual experiences five or more symptoms over at least two weeks, including a persistent low mood or loss of interest in daily activities. Diagnosis requires a comprehensive assessment by a psychiatrist who will review symptoms, thoughts, and behaviours, as well as personal and family medical histories related to depression.

Treating Depression

Most cases of depression are treatable, and individuals respond well to a structured treatment approach. However, progress varies among individuals. Effective treatments for depression include:

• Psychotherapy: Known as “talk therapy,” this method helps individuals address negative emotions and behavioural patterns. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a common, goal-oriented psychotherapy often used to manage depression symptoms.
• Medication: Antidepressants help regulate chemicals in the brain related to mood. These medications can take up to eight weeks to be effective, initially improving sleep, appetite, and concentration before enhancing mood. Some individuals with treatment-resistant depression may benefit from anti-anxiety or antipsychotic medications.
• Lifestyle adjustments: Incorporating regular exercise, quality sleep, balanced nutrition, and social connections can alleviate symptoms. Avoiding alcohol and smoking further supports recovery.
• Counselling: This therapeutic approach provides a supportive space to explore issues and develop coping mechanisms. Counsellors assist by offering guidance while respecting clients’ autonomy.
• Mindfulness practices: Practising mindfulness can foster mental health by encouraging awareness of present thoughts, feelings, and sensations. Mindfulness practices help reduce anxiety and promote a mindset of gratitude.

Preventing Depression

While depression is not entirely preventable, certain lifestyle practices can lower the likelihood of developing symptoms:

• Prioritising self-care activities, including exercise, meditation, and yoga.
• Maintaining a consistent sleep routine.
• Managing stress through healthy coping strategies.
• Setting realistic personal and professional goals.
• Nurturing relationships with family and friends.
• Practising mental health awareness to reduce stigma.

Supporting Someone with Depression

Offering support to someone with depression can be challenging but impactful. Some ways to provide help include:

• Encouraging treatment and adherence to prescribed routines.
• Providing emotional support and a listening ear.
• Offering practical assistance with daily tasks.
• Promoting healthy habits such as exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep.
• Showing empathy, patience, and understanding throughout their recovery journey.

Schedule an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

Let us work together to break the stigma surrounding mental health and foster a compassionate environment for those affected by depression.

If you or someone you know is dealing with depression, contact the expert team of mental health professionals at Gleneagles Hospitals for consultation. We assure you the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.