Depression

Introduction

What is depression?

Feeling blue or sad from time to time is an ordinary part of life. Usually, such negative feelings do not last too long. Depression, or depressive disorder, happens when these feelings become persistent and interfere with one’s daily life, preventing one from fully functioning. Unlike the ordinary ‘blues’, depression affects the entire life of the person, from moods and thoughts to the physical body, and from emotions to physical activities.

What are the types of depression?

There are several types of depressive disorders, including major depression, bipolar disorder, dysthymia, postpartum depression, psychotic depression, seasonal affective disorder etc.

What are the signs and symptoms of depression?

Some general signs and symptoms of depression include feeling sad, empty, hopeless, helpless, worthless, or guilty, restlessness, easily irritated, fatigue, tiredness, insomnia, loss of interest in all activities, consistent failure to focus, remember, or make decision properly, headaches, recurrent thoughts of suicide etc.

What causes depression?

As with most psychological illnesses, the exact causes of depression are not well understood. Certain types of depressive disorders might be hereditary, and some may be triggered by certain life events or hormonal changes.

Can depression be treated? How?

Treatments for depression often involve psychotherapy (talk therapy) and oral medications.