Depression
We hear the word "depression" casually used when we interact with friends and family. Nowadays, many people use the term "depression" to describe feelings of sadness or exhaustion. In reality, depression is a medical illness that affects people's daily lives and the way they feel and think. Depression has various symptoms. To name a few, these symptoms may include physical manifestations such as disturbed sleep and appetite, poor concentration, having low energy, aches in the body, and others. Psychological symptoms of depression may include feeling persistent sadness, hopelessness, and helplessness; experiencing intense guilt; feeling irritable and angry; feeling continuous worry and ruminating thoughts; and having suicidal thoughts. When experiencing these symptoms, people become withdrawn and socially isolated. They may feel as if no one can help them or that they will never experience joy again. When addressing depression, it is important to distinguish it from grief. Grief is our reaction to loss, while depression is a chronic feeling of sadness. In grief, we have waves of sadness that can be overwhelming, but they become less intense with time. Depression, on the other hand, is associated with persistent feelings of self-loathing and distress. Sometimes, grief and depression coexist. Losing a loved one or going through a painful, traumatic event may promote depression or make its symptoms more severe.
Depression may arise from different factors. For example, people may have gone through emotional or physical abuse or poverty in their childhood. Additionally, brain chemistry may make some people more susceptible to depression than others. Depression can also be a learned behavior. For instance, if depression runs in the family, the child may perceive depression as a way to cope with feelings and emotions. Moreover, some people also possess a certain personality, which may contribute to poor emotional regulation and, as a result, make the person depressed.
Depression is treated with psychotherapy and medication. Medication may help to reduce the severity of symptoms and return the person to a normal level of functioning. Psychotherapy aims to help people develop coping skills that will allow them to regulate their emotions more efficiently. As a result, the person becomes more resilient, their quality-of-life increases, they start to feel hopeful, and they are able to experience pleasure. Additionally, a reduction of the physical symptoms described earlier reduces discomfort and improves mood. Therefore, depression is a medical condition that should be treated accordingly. There is a plethora of scientific research that shows that psychotherapy and medication are effective methods for targeting the symptoms of depression and promoting a person’s well-being.
February 28, 2023