About Depression
Understanding depression, common symptoms at different ages, diagnostic methods, and treatment and support strategies.
What is Depression?
Depression, scientifically known as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is a common and treatable mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in most activities, decreased energy, and impaired daily functioning. This disorder is one of the most common mental health problems in the world and can affect people of all ages.
Depression is not just a bad mood or temporary sadness, but a serious medical condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment. This disorder can have different severity and patterns - from mild to severe - and can manifest in different ways in children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.
According to global statistics, more than 280 million people worldwide live with depression. This disorder can affect thoughts, feelings, behavior, and physical functioning and significantly reduce quality of life.
It is important to know that depression is a treatable condition. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with depression can experience significant improvement in their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Early diagnosis and scientific treatment including psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modification can accelerate the recovery process.
Depression can occur for various reasons, including biological factors (such as brain chemical changes), psychosocial factors (such as stress, loss, or trauma), and genetic factors. Understanding these factors can help with more effective diagnosis and treatment.
Important Note: Depression is not a sign of weakness and cannot simply be "snapped out of". It is a serious medical condition that requires professional treatment. Seeking help is the first important step toward recovery.
Types of Depression
Depression has different types, each with its own characteristics and treatment methods
Major Depression
This is the most common type of depression and is characterized by severe symptoms that last for at least 2 weeks. This type of depression can cause significant impairment in daily functioning.
- Persistent depressed mood
- Loss of interest in activities
- Sleep and appetite changes
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
Persistent Depressive Disorder
This type of depression, previously known as Dysthymia, is a milder but chronic form of depression that lasts for at least 2 years.
- Mild to moderate symptoms
- Long-lasting
- May combine with major depression episodes
- Affects quality of life but with less severity
Postpartum Depression
This type of depression occurs in mothers after childbirth and can affect both the mother and the baby.
- Depression symptoms after childbirth
- Feeling disconnected from the baby
- Severe anxiety about baby's health
- Severe mood changes
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
This type of depression related to seasonal changes usually occurs in fall and winter and is associated with lack of sunlight.
- Symptoms appear in specific season
- Related to lack of sunlight
- May improve with light therapy
- Usually resolves in spring and summer
Important Statistics and Facts About Depression
Better understanding of the dimensions and prevalence of depression can help reduce stigma and encourage treatment
Depression Prevalence
- • More than 280 million people worldwide live with depression
- • Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide
- • Women are approximately 2 times more likely than men to have depression
- • Depression can occur at any age
- • About 5% of adults experience depression each year
Age and Depression
- • Depression can start at any age
- • Average age of first depression episode is around 30 years
- • Adolescents and young adults are at higher risk
- • Elderly may also experience depression
- • Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes
People with depression worldwide
Higher prevalence in women than men
Improvement rate with appropriate treatment
Depression Symptoms in Children
Recognizing depression symptoms in children is essential for starting early treatment and improving their quality of life
Mood and Behavioral Changes
- Persistent and prolonged sadness or irritability
- Withdrawal from previously enjoyed pleasurable activities
- Sleep problems (insomnia or hypersomnia)
- Appetite changes (decrease or increase)
- Academic decline and difficulty concentrating
- Frequent physical complaints without medical cause (headache, stomachache)
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Restlessness or motor slowness
Cognitive and Emotional Signs
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Hopelessness about the future
- Crying without reason or without clear reason
- Decreased motivation and interest in activities
- Social relationship problems and withdrawal from friends
- Negative thoughts about self, others, and future
- Feelings of guilt or severe blame
- Difficulty making decisions or solving problems
Important points in recognizing depression symptoms in children:
- • Symptoms must persist for at least 2 weeks
- • Symptoms must be inappropriate for the child's developmental level
- • Symptoms must impair social, academic, or family functioning
- • Depression in children may appear differently than in adults
- • Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes
Depression Symptoms in Adults
Depression in adults can have significant impacts on daily life, work, and relationships
Mood and Behavioral Patterns
- Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day
- Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all or almost all activities
- Sleep disturbance (insomnia or hypersomnia nearly every day)
- Fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt
- Psychomotor agitation or retardation
- Significant weight loss or gain (without dieting)
Cognition and Functioning
- Significant difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions
- Psychomotor retardation or agitation observable by others
- Significant changes in appetite (decrease or increase)
- Persistent negative thoughts about self, future, and world
- Difficulty in work or academic functioning
- Withdrawal from social relationships
- Feelings of hopelessness or meaninglessness
Impacts of Depression in Adult Life:
Work Challenges:
- • Decreased productivity
- • Difficulty focusing on tasks
- • Increased work absences
- • Difficulty in work relationships
Relationship Challenges:
- • Difficulty in communication
- • Withdrawal from family and friends
- • Decreased interest in shared activities
- • Difficulty expressing emotions
Causes and Risk Factors of Depression
Understanding the causes of depression can help with more effective diagnosis and treatment
Biological Factors
Changes in brain chemistry and structure can play a role in depression.
- Imbalance in neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine)
- Changes in brain structure and function
- Hormonal disorders (e.g., during pregnancy or menopause)
- Family history of depression (genetic factors)
- Chronic medical problems
Psychosocial Factors
Life events and environmental factors can increase the risk of depression.
- Chronic stress or stressful life events
- Loss of loved ones or divorce
- Abuse or trauma in childhood or adulthood
- Financial or work problems
- Social isolation or loneliness
Personality and Behavioral Factors
- Specific personality traits (e.g., severe perfectionism)
- Negative thinking style
- Difficulty managing stress
- History of anxiety disorders
- Substance or alcohol use
Protective Factors
- Strong social support
- Healthy lifestyle
- Good coping skills
- Positive and stable relationships
- Spirituality or religious beliefs
Important Note: Depression is usually the result of a combination of various factors, not a single factor. Understanding these factors can help reduce feelings of guilt and blame and open the way for more effective treatment.
Depression Treatment and Support Methods
Depression treatment includes a wide range of methods selected based on individual needs and symptom severity
Depression Medication Treatment
Antidepressant medications can help improve depression symptoms. These medications work by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain.
Types of Antidepressants
- SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
- SNRI (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)
- Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors
- Tricyclic Antidepressants
- MAOI (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)
Benefits and Considerations
- Effectiveness in 60-70 percent of cases
- May take several weeks to take effect
- Need for regular use under medical supervision
- May have temporary side effects
- Should not be stopped suddenly
Possible medication side effects:
- Nausea or stomach discomfort (usually temporary)
- Drowsiness or insomnia
- Appetite changes
- Sexual problems
- Headache or dizziness
Important Note: All medications should be taken under medical supervision. The doctor determines the appropriate dose and monitors side effects.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is one of the most effective methods for treating depression and can be used alone or in combination with medication.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps people identify and change negative thought and behavior patterns.
- Identifying negative thoughts
- Changing thinking patterns
- Improving coping skills
- Increasing positive activities
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT helps people connect with painful emotions and follow their values.
- Accepting emotions
- Mindfulness
- Finding meaning and values
- Committed action
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
IPT focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and social skills.
- Improving relationships
- Resolving conflicts
- Communication skills
- Managing grief and loss
Lifestyle and Social Support
Lifestyle changes and social support can play an important role in improving depression.
Lifestyle Changes
- Regular exercise (at least 30 minutes per day)
- Adequate and regular sleep (7-9 hours per night)
- Balanced and healthy nutrition
- Stress management with relaxation techniques
- Avoiding alcohol and substances
- Exposure to sunlight
Social Support
- Receiving support from family and friends
- Joining support groups
- Regular treatment with specialist
- Learning communication skills
- Seeking help when needed
- Maintaining social relationships
Depression Treatment Success Rate
With appropriate treatment, 80 percent of people with depression experience significant improvement in their symptoms. Combination of psychotherapy and medication usually yields the best results.
It's important to note that depression treatment is a process and requires patience and persistence. With appropriate treatment and support, people can significantly improve their quality of life.
Depression Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis of depression requires comprehensive evaluation by a specialist
Depression Diagnosis Process
1. Clinical Evaluation
Depression diagnosis should be performed by an experienced specialist. This process includes clinical interviews and symptom assessment.
- Interview with individual and family if possible
- Review of medical and psychiatric history
- Evaluation of current symptoms and their severity
- Review of other possible disorders
- Suicide risk assessment (if needed)
2. Diagnostic Criteria
Depression diagnosis is based on DSM-5 criteria:
- Presence of at least 5 of 9 main symptoms
- Symptoms must persist for at least 2 weeks
- Symptoms must impair daily functioning
- Symptoms should not be due to substance use or medical condition
- Symptoms should not be better explained by other disorders
3. Tests and Questionnaires
Standard questionnaires and tests may be used:
- PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire)
- Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)
- Self-assessment questionnaires
- Laboratory tests to rule out other causes
Why is accurate diagnosis important?
- Accurate diagnosis can help choose the best treatment method
- Diagnosis can help access appropriate services and support
- Diagnosis can help better understanding of condition for individual and family
- Early diagnosis can prevent symptom worsening
Depression Complications and Consequences
Understanding possible complications of depression can help emphasize the importance of early treatment
Physical Complications
- Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases
- Immune system problems
- Increased chronic pain
- Persistent sleep problems
- Weight and metabolism changes
- Increased suicide risk
Psychological and Social Complications
- Difficulty in work and academic functioning
- Difficulty in interpersonal relationships
- Isolation and social withdrawal
- Increased risk of anxiety disorders
- Difficulty with substance or alcohol use
- Decreased quality of life
Suicide Risk
Severe depression can increase suicide risk. If you or someone you know has suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately.
Warning Signs:
- Talking about suicide or death
- Selling possessions or making a will
- Sudden withdrawal from relationships
- Severe behavior changes
Getting Immediate Help:
- Contact mental health crisis line
- Go to emergency department
- Contact mental health specialist
- Seek help from family or friends
Managing Depression in Daily Life
Practical strategies for better managing depression in daily life
Daily Strategies
- Creating regular and predictable daily routine
- Setting small and achievable goals
- Breaking large tasks into smaller parts
- Recording successes and achievements
- Using to-do lists for organization
- Rest and breaks between activities
- Accepting help from others
Self-care
- Adequate and regular sleep (7-9 hours)
- Balanced and regular nutrition
- Regular exercise (even short walks)
- Stress management with relaxation techniques
- Avoiding alcohol and substances
- Exposure to sunlight
- Engaging in pleasurable activities
Coping Skills
- Identifying triggers
- Deep breathing techniques
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Cognitive restructuring
Social Support
- Receiving support from family
- Joining support groups
- Regular treatment
- Maintaining social relationships
Positive Activities
- Engaging in pleasurable activities
- Allocating time for hobbies
- Creative activities
- Volunteering or helping others
Ready for Depression Diagnosis and Treatment?
At Ayandeh Clinic, with our expert team and experience, we're ready to help you with accurate diagnosis and effective depression treatment. Early treatment can make a big difference in your life.
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