WHAT IS DEPRESSION?
Depression is a state of low mood and aversion to activity that can affect a person’s thoughts, behavior, feelings, and sense of well-being. A depressed mood is a normal temporary reaction to life events such as loss of a loved one.it is also a symptom of some mood disorders such as major depressive disorder or dysthymia.
CAUSE:
Abuse: physical, sexual, or emotional abuse can cause depression later in life.
Certain medications: some drugs used to treat high blood pressure, such as beta-blockers or reserpine.
Conflict: personal conflicts with family members or friends.
Death or a loss: Sadness or grief from the death or loss of a loved one
Genetics: A family history of depression may increase the risk.
Major events: good events such as starting a new job, graduating, or getting married can lead to depression. So can moving, losing a job or income, getting divorced, or retiring.
Other problems: Problems such as social isolation due to other mental illnesses or being cast out of a family or social group can lead to depression.
Serious illnesses: Sometimes depression co-exists with a major illness .
Substance abuse: Nearly 30% of people with substance abuse problems also have major or clinical depression.
SYMPTOMS:
- Difficulty concentrating, thinking or making decisions
- Feeling sad or a depressed mood
- Loss of interest
- pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- weight loss or gain
- Sleeping pattern disturb
- Loss of energy
- Increase in physical activity (e.g., hand-wringing or pacing) or slowed movements and speech (actions observable by others)
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- social withdrawal
- Thoughts of suicide
- Irritability
TREATMENT:
- Therapies
1.Cognitive behavioral therapy
A talk therapy focused on modifying negative thoughts, behaviours and emotional responses associated with psychological distress.
2.Behaviour therapy
A therapy focused on modifying harmful behaviours associated with psychological distress.
3.Psychotherapy
Treatment of mental or behavioural disorders through talk therapy. - Medications
1.Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)
Eases symptoms of depressed mood and anxiety.
2.Antidepressant
Prevents or relieves depression and elevates mood.
3.Anxiolytic
Relieves anxiety and tension. May promote sleep. - Medical procedure
1.Electroconvulsive therapy
Treating mental illness by sending electric currents through the brain to trigger a seizure. Also known as shock treatment.
