Depression

Depression, also known as depressive disorder, is a mood disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness. Although these feelings and emotions can occur occasionally in everyone, the symptoms of depression are more severe and long-lasting, significantly impacting various aspects of the individual’s life

Causes of Depression

Generally, the causes of depression can be attributed to individuals experiencing mood states that deviate from the norm, leading to feelings of stress, anxiety, hopelessness, and despair, which in turn contribute to severe depressive episodes. However, in theoretical terms, there is a plethora of research explaining various factors that contribute to depression.

Symptoms of Depression

The abnormal symptoms of depression typically manifest in four main aspects: mood, cognition, motivation, behavior, and physical symptoms. These symptoms persist continuously for at least two weeks and significantly impact daily functioning, including the ability to perform tasks. Depression can cause immense mental anguish and may lead to increased risk of self-harm and suicide

Treatment of Depression

1.Treatment with Antidepressant Medication : Treatment with antidepressant drugs requires diagnosis and medication selection by a physician based on the individual’s symptoms. Antidepressants primarily work by blocking the reuptake of important neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin at nerve endings. When these neurotransmitters increase, symptoms of depression decrease or disappear. Antidepressant treatment typically takes 1-3 weeks to show effectiveness. Once the patient’s mood stabilizes, feelings of sadness diminish, and sleep improves, the medication can be gradually reduced. However, patients should continue taking the medication for 6 months to 1 year to prevent recurrence of symptoms.

2.Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) : ECT helps to adjust neurotransmitters in the brain, regulating thoughts, mood, and behavior to restore balance.

3.Psychotherapy : Psychotherapy involves therapists assisting patients through various activities to help them observe themselves, understand their problems, and learn coping strategies. There are several types of psychotherapy, including:

3.1 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) : Focuses on adjusting thoughts and understanding thought processes, staying present, changing perspectives, and understanding real problems.

3.2 Behavioral Therapy : Identifies the causes of the disease and adjusts behaviors that may contribute to prolonged depressive symptoms.

3.3 Psychodynamic Therapy : Focuses on understanding deep-rooted problems and working with internal conflicts that cause depression.

3.4 Interpersonal Therapy: Focuses on relationship issues, helping to reduce depression, increase self-esteem, and develop social skills, with an emphasis on current emotional concerns.

3.5 Family Therapy: Activities that encourage family members to open up, communicate feelings, thoughts, needs, and listen to each other, aiming for improved relationships and better problem-solving abilities. Family therapy can be conducted in various ways, including counseling, teaching, and empowering families, and enhancing their strengths.

Reviewed by : Internal Medicine Center

Saint Louis Hospital