Free Tutorial in Basic Psychology - Understanding Depression and How to Cope
Depression is characterized by a low or depressed mood associated with loss of interest in activities of any kind. It is an unhealthy state of mind. We will learn more about it and also as how to cope with it in this article.
Depression is a mental disorder and is a term which is often used very commonly in discussions about such conditions. In technical language, it is known as depressive disorder. We learn about depression in detail under the subject - Psychology.
Depression is characterized by a low or depressed mood associated with a loss of interest in activities of any kind. Generally, this condition remains for a long time and sometimes remains like that for good.Reasons for depression
Depression is a terrible condition severely affecting the personality of a person and can happen to anyone. People who have been abused, lost their near and dear, or gone through stressful events are more prone to develop depression. Studies reveal that women are more likely to have depression than men. In some people, problems at school, college, or the workplace can lead to depression. Identification of depression
We all are human beings and it is natural that our mood changes from time to time. Our mood depends on various factors, situations, and circumstances in our lives. That type of mood change is a common thing and is known as regular mood change. A low mood condition in that cycle or sequence is not to be confused with depression.
The most important characteristic of depression is that it lasts for a longer duration, maybe for a day, or few days or for few weeks. This long duration is a matter of worry and psychologists or psychiatrists differentiate depression from regular mood change mainly based on this factor.
There are many symptoms from which the presence of depression can be ascertained in a person. Some of the common ones are -
In addition to the above some other physical symptoms could be there as a consequence of depression and these are - frequent irritability, restlessness, chronic pain, headache, and issues related to the digestive system.
Experts opine that even if five or more symptoms from the above list persist for 10 days or more, the treating doctors can confirm the diagnosis as depression in the particular person.Some global data about depression
It is estimated that about 4% of the world population (about 280 million people) suffers from depression. This is an average estimate and figures can change from country to country and the various age groups involved. Studies also show that it is more common in women than men. It is estimated that the prevalence of depression in women is 50% more than that of men. It is to be noted that every year lakhs of people die of suicide and depression is one of the main causes.Patterns of depressive episodes
The patterns of depression can vary from person to person. Generally, three types of episodes are seen when a person is attacked by depression. First is single-episode depressive disorder. In this, the person gets only one attack of depression and then comes back to normal. The second is recurring-episode depressive disorder. In this condition, the depression recurs from time to time. The third situation is bipolar recurring episode depressive disorder in which alternate attacks of depression are there and in one of the episodes, the person would remain in low mood in all aspects of life while in other, one will be too excited, overactive, or too talkative.Prevention and cure of depression
Though there are established methods of treating people who have depressive conditions, still in some poor and underdeveloped countries people are deprived of these treatments. In some places, lack of trained health persons is also an issue. Further, in some places, social stigma also plays a role and discourages the family members from accepting depression and going for treatment.
Parents in the home and teachers in the school have to play an important part in prevention programmes for reducing depressive tendencies in the target children. All these programs under the supervision of school authorities are based on the creation of a positive attitude in life.
The standard treatment of depression consists of a mix of psychological treatment and medications. Antidepressant medicines are effective in moderate and severe depression. However, it is not advised to use them during mild depression.
Family members and close relatives of a depressed person can help in the matter of providing a conducive atmosphere during the treatment of the patient. They can refer to guide books, WHO manuals, self-help portals, talk therapy sites, self-care, etc and should keep the following things in their minds while supporting the patient - Conclusion
Depression is an unhealthy condition of the mind and can become dreadful if not treated or contained in time. Understanding the source of depression and its symptoms helps the doctor or psychiatrist in treating the patient successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is depression curable?
It depends upon the severity of the case. Generally, mild and moderate depressions are cured with continuous monitoring. In case of severe depression medication is also required and success ratio depends on many conditions like environment, family support, individual will power, etc. In worst cases it is to be managed rather than getting cured.Who is better for treating depression - a Psychiatrist or a Psychologist?
A Psychiatrist is a better choice because he is well versed with the medicines required to be given.
A good article from the author giving details about depression and its consequences. Depression makes a person unsuccessful. Negative thoughts will dominate the personality. Too much depression leads to shivering and may cause mental tension and it may raise the BP of a person also.
My father is a living example of this. He is very healthy even at his age of 90 years physically, but because of his depression, he is suffering from anxiety neurosis. He has been using medicine under the care of a psychiatrist for the last 20 years. He always thinks about his health only and feels that he may suffer from health problems. That made him very weak. With medicines, the situation is under control. But every minute he thinks that it is his last minute on earth.
As mentioned by the author, the people around such a person should be trying to take out fear from such people and should try to encourage them so that positive thoughts will come in their minds. Be supportive to such persons.