Understanding Depression and How to Help
Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
It can manifest in various forms and profoundly impact a person's daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Recognizing the signs of depression and knowing how to help yourself or someone else is crucial in getting support and promoting recovery.
There are many types of depressive disorders however this article will focus mainly on major depression.
Types of Depression
Major depression (clinical, unipolar)
Melancholia
Psychotic depression
Antenatal and postnatal depression (during and after pregnancy)
Dysthymic disorder (persistent depressive disorder)
Cyclothymic disorder
Bipolar disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
Changes in appetite or weight
Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
Fatigue or loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide
What should you do if you're feeling down?
Seek professional help from a therapist or doctor
Open up to someone you trust about how you're feeling
Engage in activities you enjoy or that bring you a sense of accomplishment
Practice self-care, such as getting enough rest, eating well, and exercising
Avoid isolation and try to stay connected with others
Treatments for Depression:
Note: Each person will be affected by depression differently so there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. It is important to find the right combination of treatments that work for you.
Therapy (such as cognitive behavioural therapy or interpersonal therapy)
Medication (antidepressants prescribed by a doctor)
Lifestyle changes (exercise, healthy diet, sufficient sleep)
Social support (talking to friends, family, or support groups)
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
How to Help Someone with Depression
Encourage them to seek professional help: A mental health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.
Listen without judgment: Be a supportive listener and offer a safe space for them to express their feelings and concerns.
Offer practical support: Help with daily tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, or running errands, to alleviate some of the burdens they may be facing.
Encourage healthy habits: Encourage regular exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep, as these can have a positive impact on mood and overall well-being.
Stay connected: Check in regularly, spend time together, and show that you care. Social support is essential in managing depression.
Be patient: Recovery from depression takes time, so be patient and understanding throughout the process.
It's important to remember that everyone's experience with depression is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.
By being informed, supportive, and compassionate, you can make a positive difference in someone's journey towards healing and recovery from depression.
References:
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/for-young-people/depression/
Kanter JW, Busch AM, Weeks CE, Landes SJ. The nature of clinical depression: symptoms, syndromes, and behavior analysis. Behav Anal. 2008 Spring;31(1):1-21. doi: 10.1007/BF03392158. PMID: 22478499; PMCID: PMC2395346.
Karrouri R, Hammani Z, Benjelloun R, Otheman Y. Major depressive disorder: Validated treatments and future challenges. World J Clin Cases. 2021 Nov 6;9(31):9350-9367. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i31.9350. PMID: 34877271; PMCID: PMC8610877.
Noetel M, Sanders T, Gallardo-Gómez D, Taylor P, del Pozo Cruz B, van den Hoek D et al. Effect of exercise for depression: systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials BMJ 2024; 384 :e075847 doi:10.1136/bmj-2023-075847
Remes O, Mendes JF, Templeton P. Biological, Psychological, and Social Determinants of Depression: A Review of Recent Literature. Brain Sci. 2021 Dec 10;11(12):1633. doi: 10.3390/brainsci11121633. PMID: 34942936; PMCID: PMC8699555.
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