Main facts:
- Depression is a multifaceted condition that can arise for several reasons.
- Because of a variety of reasons, including hormonal variations, social roles, life
pressures, psychological traits and others, women are more likely than males to
experience depression. - Studies reveal that the stress hormone cortisol hurts the hippocampus, which is
responsible for memory storage in the brain. This effect results in a reduction of the
hippocampal size. Because serotonin affects learning, happiness, memory, and other
functions, a smaller or diminished hippocampus means fewer serotonin receptors. As a
result, lower serotonin levels are likely to be a contributing factor to depression.
Symptoms
Each person may have different signs of depression. The degree of severity, duration, and
frequency of occurrence may all vary. Physical, social and psychological symptoms are all
possible.
Physical symptoms:
- Having troubled or disturbed sleep
- In addition to being an indication of heart issues, chest pains can also indicate
depression. The same is true for discomfort and aches in the body that seem
inexplicable. - Reduced desire for sex or loss of libido
- Digestive issues. Constipation, diarrhea, or nausea can be brought on by depression.
- Feeling worn out or tired even after a prolonged period of relaxation.
- Changes in appetite. A person suffering from depression may choose to restrict or
overindulge in eating. - No motivation to move, talk or take action.
Social symptoms
- Cutting off all communication and social interaction.
- Giving up hobbies and activities they used to have.
Psychological symptoms
- Experiencing nearly all negative emotions, such as worthlessness, pessimism, remorse,
and hopelessness. - Having a poor sense of oneself.
- Cannot get rid of their intolerant behavior, anger, and irritation toward others.
- Finding it tough to focus and make decisions
Treatments
Depression is not something that can be quickly overcome. Depression has a detrimental effect
on both the person with the diagnosis and those around them, and it can linger for months or, in
the worst-case scenario, years.
Depression treatment varies from patient to patient. It is necessary to identify the most effective
course of treatment, which is typically a mix of medication and lifestyle counseling.
Antidepressant medications are typically used in conjunction with psychotherapy techniques like
Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and
others.
Additionally, alternative therapies like meditation and acupuncture might be used, including a
few lifestyle modifications as well, as these can be very beneficial while managing depression.
Taking vitamins and supplements, exercising, abstaining from alcohol and illicit drugs, and
setting aside time for oneself are a few of these lifestyle changes that can be beneficial to
depression recovery.
If you experience depressive symptoms that last longer than two weeks, see your doctor. In the
event that you feel hopeless and unable to escape your situation, do not hesitate to ask for
assistance.
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression
https://www.mddconnection.com/depression-and-social-life
https://www.webmd.com/depression/ss/slideshow-physical-symptoms-depression
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/depression-in-adults/symptoms
