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Depression

Depression is a common condition characterized by a persistent feeling of low mood, persistent fatigue and a lack of energy that can last over a long period. This health disorder affects our thoughts, feelings and behaviors and can make it challenging to cope with the demands of everyday life. It is important to understand that depression is very common, but many people can experience significant improvement with the right treatment methods.

What is depression:

Depression is more than temporary sadness or low mood, and it is not an easy thing to just "pick yourself up". A person suffering from depression experiences a variety of symptoms, including persistent low mood, overwhelming fatigue, and lack of energy. These symptoms are present for most of the day and have lasted for at least two weeks. To diagnose depression, the doctor or psychologist listens to your own description of your mental health and asks specific questions about your symptoms. There is no simple test or test that can detect depression, the diagnosis is instead based on the information that emerges during the conversation between you and your healthcare provider. Sometimes the healthcare provider may use a standardized questionnaire and perform tests and examinations to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms.

Primary depression:

Is the most common form of depression and it can vary in severity, from mild to moderate to severe, depending on how much it affects your everyday life:

  • In mild depression it is possible to carry out most everyday tasks, although it can feel stressful.

  • In moderate depression, it is difficult to cope with daily activities and work, and it is obvious to others that something is not as it usually is.

  • In severe depression, all areas of life are fundamentally affected, and managing even the most basic needs, such as eating, sleeping and working, can feel overwhelming.

Chronic or prolonged depression means that the symptoms have been present for at least two years, and during this time there have not been more than two months without depressive symptoms.

Risk Factors for Depression

  • Exposed events and high levels of stress, such as abuse, the loss of a loved one, problematic relationships, divorce, having children with special needs and severe financial difficulties.

  • Heredity, where the presence of close genetic relatives who have had depression, bipolar disorder, alcohol problems or suicide can increase the risk.

  • Simultaneous presence of other mental illnesses, such as anxiety, eating disorders or sleep difficulties.

  • A difficult childhood or upbringing, which can increase vulnerability to depression later in life.

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  • Alcohol or drug abuse.

Symptoms of Depression

Many people experience depression once in their life while others may suffer from recurring episodes. The symptoms of depression are usually both mental and physical and affect a large part of the day. To receive a diagnosis of depression, symptoms must be present for at least two weeks. Typical symptoms of depression include:

  • Down in mood, feelings of hopelessness or emptiness.

  • Anger, irritation or frustration, even over small things .

  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, such as hobbies, exercise and socializing.

  • Decreased sex drive and interest for loved ones.

  • Sleep problems, including difficulty falling asleep, early awakening or increased sleepiness.

  • Fatigue, lack of energy and difficulty with daily tasks.

  • Appetite changes that may result in weight loss or weight gain.

  • Anxiety, feeling restless and excessive worry.

  • Impaired cognitive ability, such as difficulty thinking, speaking or moving more slowly than usual.

  • Feeling worthlessness and self-blame.

Treatment for Depression

The goal of treatment for depression is to improve the quality of life, the ability to deal with everyday life and reduce the risk of recurrence depressive episodes. The two most common treatment methods for depression include the use of antidepressants and psychological therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). In addition, self-care measures play an important role, especially physical activity, which research has shown to have a positive effect on reducing depression symptoms. There are different types of antidepressants available, but for mild to moderate depression, a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are most commonly used. It usually takes several weeks for these drugs to start working and they can cause side effects especially at the beginning of treatment. It may feel challenging at first, but it is important not to stop treatment too early.

In severe depression, treatment in a hospital psychiatric clinic may be necessary, especially if there is a risk of suicide or if the depression is so severe that it affects basic functions such as eating and sleeping. This more intensive care can be life-changing and help stabilize the condition. In summary, the treatment for depression involves a combination of medication, therapy and self-care, adapted to individual needs. It is important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, as early intervention can be critical to improving quality of life and promoting recovery.