Depression can take a toll on your life. Especially when it’s not managed regularly. It can also lead to fatal consequences as well.
This guide will help you identify the signs and symptoms of depression. You will also learn what treatment plans you can use to manage it. If you need more information on how you can get help for depression or other mental disorders, Epiphany Wellness can help.
You can visit their website at https://epiphanywellness.com/. You will find out how you can get the treatment you need so you can live a more fulfilling life. You deserve to have more control over your depression or any mental disorder you may have.
Let’s talk more about depression, what to look for, and how to treat it.
The types of depression
One of the things you’ll want to be aware of is depression exists in various types. Let’s take a look at the following list below and when these will appear:
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): This is known as seasonal depression. This will affect people in the latter part of the year from late fall into the early winter (December-January). SAD will usually dissipate around the spring or summer months (April-June).
- Bipolar depression: Associated with bipolar disorder. This will include periods of low and manic moods alternating back and forth. People will feel sad and lack energy during this ‘low period’. Also, feelings of hopelessness can also occur.
- Clinical depression: This is also known as MDD or major depressive disorder. This is one of the more common forms of depression. Symptoms can last longer than two to three weeks. This is the type of depression that will be a detriment to your day-to-day life.
- Perinatal and postpartum: This depression will happen around the time of childbirth and about a year afterwards. Minor sadness and stress along with the usual ‘baby blues’ will be included as part of this type of depression.
This is just a sample list of the types of depression. However, for this guide we’ll be taking a look at clinical depression since it is one of the most common and serious forms.
Signs and symptoms
Depression can have widespread effects on you both physically and mentally. These are the common signs that you will need to look out for:
- Not interested or enjoying activities that you usually love doing
- Feeling sad or hopeless
- Eating very little or even a lot
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Easily frustrated or irritable
- Difficulty with concentration or memory
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- Physical symptoms such as stomach pain, headache, etc.
- Anxiety
- Tiredness or a lack of energy, especially when you’re attempting to perform simple tasks
- Constant feelings of worry or guilt
These are the symptoms that will interfere with your daily life if they are severe enough. You may have a hard time at school, work, home, or fulfilling any obligations you may have such as spending time with friends or family.
You may experience these symptoms and be uncertain as to why you are feeling that way. People around you may start to worry as well. The signs and symptoms may also differ depending on age.
For example, older adults may deal with more memory issues and changes in personality. They may also lose interest in activities such as sex. They may also decide to stay home rather than go out and spend time with friends or do new activities.
In younger people such as children and teens, irritability, clinginess, mood swings, refusing to attend school, being underweight than normal, and even self-harm are just some of the many signs and symptoms of depression.
What are the causes of depression?
Many factors can be cited as causes for depression. This can include the following:
- Genetics: You may have relatives that have dealt with depression. This will increase your chances of dealing with it yourself.
- Chemistry in brain: You may have a chemical imbalance in your brain to the point where it can cause depression.
- Medical issues: You may be dealing with a medical issue that may lead to depression. This will include cancer and even Parkinson’s disease.
- Events in your life: This can include traumatic and even upsetting situations including the death of a family member, abuse, stress, and a lack of support.
- Personality: You may be overwhelmed often or may have coping issues.
How is depression treated?
Depression can be treated through several options. They will include one or a combination of the following:
- Counseling: You can speak with a mental health counselor (even one with a specialty in depression). They will understand your condition and put you on the right treatment plan that is specialized for your needs.
- Medication: You will be prescribed antidepressants with the intent of changing the chemistry in your brain. You may also request alternative medicine if you believe it is the best course of action for your treatment.
- Self-care: It is possible to mitigate your depression by practicing self-care on a regular basis. This includes living a healthy lifestyle, getting plenty of sleep, spending time with friends and family, and enjoying activities that will take your mind off of things. Each self-care plan for depression is different. It never hurts to try out new things. Make a plan to perform self-care every day for at least 20 to 30 minutes so you can feel better throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
Depression is a serious mental disorder. It can be treated on a regular basis. Be sure to identify the potential signs and symptoms and make sure you have it diagnosed by a professional.
Failure to treat or manage your depression can have serious consequences. These can include suicidal thoughts and actions. If you are experiencing these, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
The lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Don’t let your depression get the best of you. Get diagnosed and treated so you can live your life on your terms.
