Depression

 

It can be described as feeling sad, unhappy, hopelessness or lack of energy. The person having depression loses pleasure in activities that used to give joy in past. Even trivial daily routines like eating lacks interest. Depressed people feel completely unmotivated.

 

 

The exact cause of depression is unknown. It is generally believed that all mental disorders are caused by a complex interaction and combination of biological, psychological and social factors. Depression can occur due to genetic predisposition or triggered by certain stressful events. Sometimes it can be due to combination of both.

 

Following can be causative factors for depression:

1. Alcohol or drug abuse

2. Certain medical conditions, including hypothyroidism

3. Family history of depression

4. Central nervous system illnesses and injuries e.g., Brain  tumors, head trauma, multiple sclerosis, stroke

5. Chronic illness like cancer

6. Chronic pain

7. Certain medications such as steroids

8. Sleeping problems

9. Stressful life events, such as disappointment in love

 

 

 

Symptoms of depression can include:

1. Persistent sad, gloomy mood

2. Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism

3. Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed

4. Fatigue and lack of energy

5. Restlessness, and irritability

6. Isolation or social withdrawal

7. Difficulty in concentration, remembering details, decision making

8. Change in appetite, leading to either weight gain or loss

9. Feelings of worthlessness, self-hate, and guilt

10. Thoughts of death or suicide

11. Insomnia, difficult sleep or excessive sleepiness

 

 

1. Physician can conclude depression by taking detailed medical history and a physical examination.

History of medications such as corticosteroids and drug or alcohol abuse should be noted.

2. Blood tests like electrolytes, liver function, and kidney function can help to detect possible causes of depression.

3.CT scan or MRI of the brain to rule out serious illnesses such as a brain tumor

4. EEG (electroencephalogram) for recording any abnormal brain activity

 

 

It includes:

1. Medication: Anti-depressants such as 

a) Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

b) Serotonin nor epinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

c) Tricyclic antidepressants

2.Psychotherapy: This includes counseling the patient while talking about his feelings and thoughts, and guiding them about how to deal with depression. It helps patients to understand the issues behind the thoughts and feelings.It will include, 

a) Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches how to fight off negative thoughts. Patients are also taught self awareness of symptoms, managing the causative factors, problem-solving skills.

b) Group Therapy

3. Other treatments include,

a) Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the single most effective treatment for severe depression, those with psychotic symptoms and it is generally safe.

b) Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) consists of pulses of energy to stimulate nerve cells in the brain that are believe to affect mood.

 

 

1. Suicide

2. Alcohol or substance abuse, smoking

3. Increased risk for other psychiatric diseases

 

 

To prevent the disease follow these DO’s and Don’ts, 

1. Do not drink alcohol or indulge in drugs. These can worsen depression and might lead to thoughts of suicide.

2. Take medication exactly as physician has instructed.

3. Do activities that give pleasure or do routine activities in different ways.

4. Divert attention in activities like reading books, listening music, etc. rather than brooding on thoughts that worsen depression

5. Do regular exercise or yoga.

6. Get involved in group activities

7. Talk and share feelings with closed ones