Basics of Depression: Overview and Definition
Basics of Depression: Overview and Definition
Understanding Depression
- Depression is a mental disorder characterised by constant feelings of sadness and a general loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.
- It can cause a variety of emotional and physical issues and can decrease an individual's functionality at work or home.
- This mental illness, contrary to popular belief, is not simply about feeling 'a bit down' due to a bad day but is a persistent condition.
Types of Depression
- Various types exist including Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Postnatal Depression (PND), and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
- MDD, often just referred to as 'depression', is diagnosed when a person experiences a depressed mood or lack for interest in activities for at least two weeks.
- PND refers to the onset of depressive symptoms in a mother, after giving birth, whereas SAD is connected to the change in seasons, particularly during winter.
Symptoms
- The manifestation differs from person to person and diagnosis is made when an individual reports a specific number of symptoms such as low mood, lack of energy, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, disturbed sleep or appetite.
- These symptoms may lead to difficulty in maintaining relationships or decreased productivity at work.
- Symptoms must be persistent and exist for a minimum of two weeks for a diagnosis of MDD.
Depression and the Brain
- It's much more complex than just being a result of an imbalance of chemicals; it involves changes in the function and structure of the brain.
- Neuroimaging studies have shown that the hippocampus, a region of the brain associated with memory and emotion, is smaller in people with MDD.
- Various neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline are implicated in its development, although a direct causative relationship has not been fully established.
Treatment
- Depression is usually managed through a combination of medications, psychotherapy, or lifestyle changes.
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are common approaches in treating depression.
- A healthcare professional should always monitor treatment as it can vary based on the severity of symptoms and individual response to therapy.
Key Points to Remember
- Depression is a serious and debilitating mental health disorder, not just a case of 'feeling down'.
- It's associated with changes in brain structure and function.
- Symptoms can vary widely between individuals, but must persist for at least two weeks before a diagnosis can be made.
- Treatment is multifaceted and involves medication, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes.