03/12/2021
Depression
Depression is a mood disorder that may resolve on its own, but it can cause severe problems in some people. These people always have perpetual feelings of sadness, anger, and frustration that interfere with their ability to do day-to-day routine activities.
These feelings may even impact their relationships and cause chronic illnesses.
Depression is quite common and according to the WHO, 34 crore people suffer from depression worldwide, and 5.6 crore people suffer from depression in India.
A majority of these cases occur in the age group of 18 to 34.
What are the Causes of Depression?
There are many possible causes of depression and these can include a combination of psychological, social, and biological factors such as:
• Genetics – Genetics can be a factor for depression. Genetics can be very complicated and while the exact gene causing depression is not known, a history of depression in the family can increase its chances of occurrence.
• Age – Elderly people are more susceptible to depression. This can be aggravated by factors like staying alone or a lack of social support.
• Gender – Women are at a higher risk of depression than men. It is believed to be due to the hormonal changes that they go through throughout their lives.
• Hormonal imbalances – Hormonal imbalance, caused by things like menopause, thyroid problems, childbirth, etc can affect the body and increase the chances of depression. A decrease in the levels of a hormone called serotonin, in the brain, is linked with depression.
• Personal problems – Some people may feel stressed due to various personal issues, such as pressures at work or discrepancies in their marriage.
• Substance abuse – There has been a direct link between substance abuse and depression. Nearly 30% of people with a history of substance abuse have mild to severe clinical depression.
• Illness – Some chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, kidney disease, HIV and AIDS, heart disease, etc have been linked with depression.
• Medications – Chronic usage of certain medications can increase the risk of depression.
What are the Symptoms of Depression?
The symptoms can vary according to the type of depression the individual is suffering from. It affects your thoughts, feelings, and actions. Let us explain the symptoms in detail.
• Feeling inexplicably tired (fatigue)
• Depressed mood
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Mood swings
• Frustration
• Difficulty in thinking and decision making
• Difficulty in concentrating
• Inability to work efficiently
• The feeling of guilt and worthlessness
• Compelling increase in consumption of drugs and alcohol
• Headache and body ache
• Muscle ache
• Dissociating from others
• Disturbances in sleep ranging from excessive sleepiness to insomnia
• Changes in appetite
• Recurrent thoughts of death or self-harm
• Decreased interest and participation in previously enjoyable activities
What is the Treatment of Depression?
Treatment for depression includes:
• Self-help: Taking care of yourself with the help of regular exercise, adequate sleep, and spending time with the people you care about can improve depression symptoms.
• Counseling: Counseling or psychotherapy is interacting with a mental health professional. Your counselor helps you identify and address your problems and develop coping skills.
• Yoga and Meditation: Yoga-based interventions may prove to be an attractive option for the treatment of depression.
