Depression is a mood disorder that affects about one in 10 people over the course of their lives. It can have a huge impact on the quality of life and can be treated.
What is depression?
Everyone feels sad from time to time, but depression is a condition that makes you feel very depressed and sad for most of the day or most of the week. It is a serious mental health problem and should be treated as soon as it is identified.
Symptoms of depression can be different for every person and vary by age and gender. The most common symptoms of depression are feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and irritability. They also include loss of interest in things you used to enjoy.
Causes of depression can be caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain, hormone levels or family history. Changes in female hormone levels (such as during the menstrual cycle or postpartum period) can increase your risk for depression. Other causes can be medical conditions like thyroid problems or vitamin D deficiency.
Psychological factors, such as a negative or stressful family atmosphere, can make you more likely to develop depression. These events can be hard to deal with on your own, and if you are feeling very depressed or not able to cope, it’s best to seek help from a healthcare professional.
Personality traits can also contribute to depression. Some people with depression have low self-esteem or are overly critical of themselves. Other people with depression may have trouble coping with stress.
Medications can help with depression, but they do not always work. Your doctor will decide if you need treatment, and what kind of treatment works for you. If you don’t respond to medication, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an option for some people with severe depression.
A good way to prevent depression is to think positively and try to avoid situations that cause you to feel anxious. This is because the short-term warning systems that anxiety provides can help us in the face of threats, but when those threats linger, they can become harmful.
The best way to keep your mood stable is to set goals and not take on too much. This can be difficult, but it is the only way to keep depression from getting worse.
If you have a friend or family member who has depression, be supportive and encourage them to see a healthcare professional. They will need to tell the healthcare professional how they feel and how they are coping with their feelings.
Diagnosis and treatment of depression is based on your symptoms, your history and a physical exam. Your healthcare provider may conduct blood work or order tests to check for medical conditions that can mimic depression.
It is important to note that depression can be triggered by thyroid problems or a vitamin D deficiency, so you should discuss these with your doctor. If you are concerned about your or a loved one’s depression, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline on 988 to talk to someone 24/7.
