Depression

Depression commonly manifests physically, through stomach pains, headaches, disrupted or excessive sleep, and motor control difficulty. While the causes of depression are unknown, a predisposition for it runs in families and it can be triggered by trauma and adverse life circumstances. Some people abuse alcohol and drugs or overeat as a way of coping, causing them to develop other medical problems. Depressed people are also at increased risk for self-harm.

Some Symptoms of Depression:

• Lack of energy

• Sad, depressed Mood

• Flat, Constricted Affect (Can’t feel emotions )

• Guilt

• Exhaustion

• Mood Irritability

• Suicidal thoughts or actions

• Isolation from family and peers

• Lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities

• Loss of appetite

• Insomnia or hypersomnia

• Poor concentration and indecisiveness

• Low self esteem

When to ask for help if:

• You feel an overwhelming and prolonged sense of sadness, helplessness, and hopelessness.

• You are unable to concentrate on assignments and your job performance suffers as a result. 

• Your actions are harmful to yourself or others.

• You have emotional difficulties with facing family members or close friends.

Therapy Types:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is based on the premise that patients with depression have thinking that is characterized by dysfunctional negative views of oneself, one’s life experiences, and world in general, and one’s future. Thus, a clinically depressed person is likely to believe themselves as being incapable and helpless, to view others as being judgmental and critical and the future as being unrewarding. CBT focuses on helping individuals identify and modify maladaptive thinking and behavior patterns. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) works to replace negative and unproductive thought patterns with more realistic and useful ones. Treatment often involves facing one’s fears as part of the pathway to recovery.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is a time-limited treatment for major depressive disorder. It aims at reducing or eliminating depressive symptoms by improving the quality of the patient’s current interpersonal relations and social functioning.

Treatment will also include adopting a healthier lifestyle:

• Exercise. Not only does exercise boost serotonin, endorphins, and other feel-good brain chemicals, it triggers the growth of new brain cells and connections, just like antidepressants do. For example, 30minutes daily walk or aerobic activity can make a big difference.

• Social support. Strong social support reduces isolation, which is a risk factor for depression. Maintain regular contact with friends and family. You may also consider joining a class or group. Volunteering is an excellent way to get social support and help others while also helping yourself.

• Nutrition. Eating well is important for both your physical and mental health. Eating small, well-balanced meals throughout the day will help you keep your energy up and minimize mood swings.

• Sleep. Sleep affects your mood. When you don't get enough sleep, your symptoms of depression will be worse. Sleep deprivation exacerbates irritability, moodiness, sadness, and fatigue. 

• Stress reduction. Make changes in your life to help manage stress. Too much stress exacerbates depression and puts you at risk for future depression.