Depression does not just describe a mood, it also involves changes in our thinking, behavior, and biology. When we are depressed we have cognitive symptoms that may include self-criticism, hopelessness, indecisiveness, suicidal thoughts, concentration difficulties, and an overall negative attitude. Emotionally we may feel sad, empty, irritable, guilty, or nervous. Behaviorally we may withdraw from other people, lose interest in enjoyable or pleasurable activities, and have difficulty with taking initiative. Physical symptoms associated with depression include being tired, oversleeping, insomnia, and significant weight loss or gain.
When these symptoms are severe or chronic they may negatively impact our personal relationships and our work. There are several forms of depressive disorders, the most common being Major Depressive Disorder and Dysthymic Disorder. Other types include Postpartum Depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Psychotic Depression, and Bipolar Disorder.
Major Depressive Disorder: This condition is characterized by one or more episodes of major depression where for several weeks the person is in a depressed mood for nearly every day, most of the day. Symptoms of diminished interest in pleasurable activities, brooding, significant weight loss or gain, insomnia or hypersomnia, restlessness, fatigue, and loss of energy may be present. Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, guilt and self-reproach are common, with lessened ability to think, concentrate, and make decisions. There may be recurrent thoughts of death. Major depression is disabling and prevents a person from functioning normally.
Dysthymic Disorder: When a person has been in a chronically depressed mood for several years, feeling sad or “down in the dumps” most of the time, they may have Dysthymic Disorder. Symptoms are similar to Major Depressive Disorder, except the symptoms are usually less severe, and chronic over several years or throughout their lifetime. Daily functioning may even be considered “usual”.
Treatment:
Successful therapeutic approaches to treat depression disorders focus on creating a supportive environment for reducing symptoms of depression and enhancing a sense of overall well-being. Therapy may involve:
1. Implementing a self-care routine, including physical activity/exercise, stress reduction techniques, healthy sleep patterns, nutritional awareness, and structuring time and social activities.
2. Discovering and processing the underlying cause of the depression to alleviate the persistent, unhealthy coping mechanisms associated with depression.
3. Cognitive therapy to restructure thoughts, beliefs and attitudes that are perpetuating dysfunctional depressive symptoms.
A combination of psychotherapy and medication and supplements are often used to effectively treat depressive disorders.