Depression is an invisible enemy from the outside. A person may appear physically healthy but experience an internal struggle. That’s why it’s important to focus on the mental and emotional symptoms of depression. These include hopelessness, helplessness, constant sadness, loss of interest, and sleep disorders.
What is depression?
Depression is a serious mental health problem often characterized by symptoms such as persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest. It can negatively affect a person’s daily life, functionality and general quality of life. Depression can be caused by a variety of reasons, including chemical imbalances in the brain, genetic factors, environmental stresses, and life events. When left untreated, depression can lead to social isolation and loss of function. Treatment options include medications, psychotherapy, and support groups.
What are the symptoms of depression?
Fighting depression starts with awareness and empathy. Talking more about depression in society, participating in awareness campaigns and supporting people is an important step in this difficult fight. Depression symptoms include:
- Persistent sadness or depression
- Inability to feel joy or pleasure
- Feeling of hopelessness or helplessness
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness
- Anger, irritability or restlessness
- Social isolation and withdrawal
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or excessive sleeping
- Appetite changes (weight gain or weight loss)
- Decrease in sexual desire
- Difficulty concentrating, memory problems or difficulty making decisions
- Headache, muscle pain, or other physical pain
- Restlessness or slowness
- digestive problems
- Loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities
- Neglecting work, school or family responsibilities
- Neglect in personal care
- Engaging in risky behavior
- substance use
How is depression treated?
Depression is a serious condition that can make it difficult to function in daily life. Depression treatment varies depending on the type, severity, and individual needs of the individual. However, the methods generally used in the treatment of depression are as follows:
- Psychotherapy can help you manage symptoms of depression and improve your quality of life.
- Antidepressants are the most commonly used medications to relieve symptoms of depression.
- Exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep can help relieve symptoms of depression.
- ECT may be an option for people with severe depression.
- TMS is another option used to treat severe depression.
A depression test is a tool used to help determine whether you have symptoms of depression. Depression testing can be done by your doctor or online. Online depression tests are not a definitive way to determine whether you have depression, but they can help you learn about your symptoms before consulting your doctor. However, remember that tests and diagnoses not performed by a doctor are not valid.