“A big part of depression is feeling lonely, even if you’re in a room full of a million people.”

Depression:

Depression (Depressive Disorder) is a widespread and important medical condition that affects the way you think, feel, and behave. It is also, fortunately, treatable. Depression produces dissatisfaction and/or lack of motivation in previously appreciated activities. It can reduce your ability to work at home and work, along with dozens of new mental and physical problems.

Symptoms of depression:

Sadness or depressed mood, Loss of interest or pleasure in once enjoyed activities, Changes in appetite - Weight loss or diet-related weight loss or difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much, Loss of energy or increased fatigue, Unintentional physical activity (e.g., inactive sitting, moving, Arm twisting) or slow movement or talking (these actions should be severe enough for others to notice) Feelings of inactivity or guilt, difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

The severity of symptoms:

 If diagnosed with depression, symptoms should last atleast two weeks and be normal Should show a decrease in daily routines. In addition, medical conditions (e.g., thyroid problems, brain tumors, or metabolic disorders) are similar to depressive symptoms, so it is important to rule out any underlying medical problems. In any given year, depression affects one in every 15 people (6.7 percent). One in six (16.6%) will suffer from depression at some point in their lives. Depression can occur at any age, but it is most common in late adolescence and early adulthood. Women are more prone to depression than men. According to some research, one-third of women have an important depressive episode in their life. When first-degree relatives (parents/children/siblings) suffer from depression, there is a high level of heredity (approximately 40%).

How are depression and sadness different?

Losing a loved one, losing a career, or ending a relationship can increase a person's grief. It is natural to feel frustrated or sad in response to such situations. People who have suffered losses may describe themselves as 'depressed.' However, sadness is not the same as despair. Grief is a natural and personal process that shares many symptoms such as depression. Both grief and depression can lead to extreme sadness and withdrawal from daily activities. They are also different in many ways: in grief, ripples of painful emotions are available, often combined with positive memories of the deceased. In severe depression, mood and/or interest (pleasure) decrease over several weeks. In grief, self-esteem is usually maintained. In severe depression, feelings of helplessness and self-loathing are common. In grief, thoughts of death may come to the fore when thinking or imagining the 'involvement' of a deceased loved one. In major depression, thoughts focus on ending one's life in vain or unworthy, or not being able to cope with the pain of depression. Grief and depression are two emotions that coexist. The death of a loved one, the loss of a career, or the loss of a loved one can cause great frustration for some. The grief that accompanies depression is more intense and lasts longer than the grief that accompanies depression. It is important to recognize the difference between death and depression so that people can get the help, support, and treatment they need.

Risk factors for depression:

 Biochemistry:

 Differences in certain chemicals in the brain contribute to depression symptoms. Genetics: Depression runs in families. For example, if a monozygotic twin suffers from depression, the risk of developing the disease at some point in life is 70 percent.

 Personality:

People with low self-esteem, who are easily overwhelmed by stress, or who generally suffer from pessimism are more likely to suffer from depression. Environmental factors: Frequent exposure to violence, neglect, abuse, or poverty can cause some people to become depressed.

Ways to Treat Depression:

Depression is one of the most easily treated mental disorders. Between 80% and 90% of people with depression respond effectively to treatment at the end of the day. There was some improvement in symptoms in almost all patients. Health professionals should perform a complete clinical analysis, including consultation and physical examination before diagnosis or treatment. In some cases, blood tests may be needed to confirm that depression is not caused by a medical condition, such as a thyroid condition or vitamin deficiency. To reach the diagnosis and determine the course of action, the test identifies various features and analyzes the medical and family history along with cultural and environmental factors.

Medications:

Changes in brain chemistry can also be used to treat a person's depression. Antidepressant drugs, in general, have a tactile stimulant effect on depressed individuals. These medications do not contain narcotics, 'uppers,' or sedatives. If after a few sessions the patient does not feel well, the psychiatrist may adjust the dose of the drug or replace it with another antidepressant.

Therapy:

 For mild depression, psychotherapy sometimes referred to as 'talk therapy, is sometimes used alone. In the treatment of depression, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is beneficial. CBT helps to identify false or negative thinking. Psychotherapy is often combined with antidepressants to treat mild to severe depression.

Electroconvulsive Therapy(ECT):

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been used medically since the 1940s. Whilst the patient is anesthetized, the electrical activity of the brain is used. ECT is usually administered two to three times each week for a range of eight to twelve treatments. It is overseen by a group of medical experts, along with a psychiatrist and anesthesiologist.

Self-help and coping:

People can do a variety of things to assist alleviate depression symptoms. Regular exercise helps many people feel better and boosts their attitude. Getting enough good adequate sleep, eating a nutritious diet, and avoiding alcohol (which is a depressant) can all help to alleviate depression symptoms.

Depression is a serious illness for which treatment is accessible. The majority of persons with depression will be able to overcome it with appropriate diagnosis and therapy. If you're having depression symptoms, the first thing you should do is contact your family doctor or a psychiatrist. Discuss your worries and ask for a thorough examination. This is a good place to start when it comes to dealing with your mental health issues.