What is Depression

Depression can be used to describe the emotion of sadness related to a negative event. When depression persists, it can be a symptom of a mental health disorder. In this short article, we discuss depression as a mental health disorder.

Major Depressive Disorder is a mental health disorder that can lead to severe adverse outcomes if left untreated. Before being diagnosed with major depressive disorder, symptoms must be present on most days for several weeks. People who have depression report a variety of symptoms; some common ones are:

• Sad mood

• Low energy

• Decreased interest in or pleasure from most activities

• Isolation

• Significant changes in appetite, weight, and sleep patterns

• Restlessness (the feeling that you can’t settle down or relax)

• Irritability and anger

• Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or remembering things.

• Inappropriate or excessive feelings of guilt, remorse,  worthlessness, and helplessness

• In severe cases of depression —thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, and self-harm behaviors.

Genetic predisposition, psychological and physical trauma, substance use, physical illness, and stress related to interpersonal, societal, economic, and occupational demands can increase the risk of depression. 

Symptoms of depression may vary depending on the age, gender, or culture of the individual. For instance, children may become irritable and fail to make expected weight gains. Elderly patients may complain about physical pain and discomfort when depressed. Our cultural differences affect how we express and cope with depression. 

Trained professionals use the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition (DSM 5) to determine the specific type of depression you or your loved one might be suffering from. The DSM 5 does not explain the source or origin of depression but rather simply describes and classifies the symptoms. 

Examples of diagnoses with depression symptoms:

• Persistent depressive disorder (less severe depressive symptoms lasting up to 2 years)

• Postpartum depression (severe depressive symptoms making it difficult for the mother to care for herself and her baby

• Major Depressive Disorder with psychotic symptoms (depression symptoms with irrational beliefs or delusions, hearing things, and seeing disturbing things, that are not heard or  seen by others)

• Seasonal affective disorder (depression symptoms worsen in the winter months and improve in the spring and summer months when there is more natural sunlight.)

Treatment for Depression. 

Depression can be treated using lifestyle changes (such as nutrition, sleep hygiene, and exercise), individual and group psychotherapy, and psychotropic medication. For severe cases of depression, sustained positive outcomes use a combination of various treatment modalities, including psychotherapy and medication. When you engage in the treatment of depression, consider the length of treatment. Mild symptoms may require shorter-term treatment, and more severe forms may require long-term follow-up treatment to maintain one’s progress.

Speaking with a professional

For moderate to severe anxiety and depression, we encourage you to seek professional help by speaking with your primary care provider or contacting a mental health professional. Also, contact emergency services if you feel helpless, hopeless, and/or are thinking about hurting yourself or others. Psychotherapy and medication have helped many people significantly reduce their symptoms and improve their lives.

References:

Transforming the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses: Depression. (2018). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression

https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/depression-anxiety.html

About the writer: Arnold Fosah is a passionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and an advocate for mental health and wellness.

Email: arnold.pmhnp@verdantbehavioralhealth.com