This is one of the common forms of depression that is also becoming evident among the youths, particularly the teens. This mood disorder can affect the individual with the persistent feeling of sadness, loss of interest in activities which affect their normal everyday life. This can implicate the individual’s ability to think or behave which can cause various emotional problems. This is also known as clinical depression that can be treated to enable the person to continue a better quality of life.
Types of Depression
- Seasonal affective disorder is caused by the changes in the time of the year associated with the reduced amount of sunlight.
- Postpartum depression is the result of hormonal changes after pregnancy.
- Psychotic depression develops with hallucinations and delusions. This can often be related to the traumatic events or the depression in the past.
- Melancholic depression presents typical signs of depression that includes weight loss and loss of interest in activities they once loved. This can also include the changes in the appetite, hypersomnia and social anxiety.
- Catatonic depression includes the motor and behavioral problems. These individuals can be immobilized or experience involuntary movements. This form of depression can severely affect their everyday essential activities.
Causes
The major depression can be caused by several factors which can be the result of traumatic events, medical disease caused by problems with the neurochemical imbalance, changes in the hormone levels and can be an inherited trait. Research indicates that any changes in the neurotransmitters of the brain chemicals can contribute to the development of mood disorder. The additional factor of depressive disorder can be determined by the family tree, as having a first-degree relative with this condition increases the risk of developing mood disorder. Some of the other risk factors include childhood trauma, certain personality traits such as self- critical or low self-esteem, alcohol abuse and certain medications.
Symptoms
The symptoms can be mild to severe that can actually affect the individual’s day-to-day activities and relationships. Some of the symptoms associated with depression include;
- Feeling anxious
- Lack of energy
- Inability to think clearly, concentrate or remember things
- Feeling worthless
- Feeling miserable, sad and tearful
- Loss of hope in life
- Irritation and anger
- Lacking confidence
- Difficulty with sleeping
- Physical aches and pain
- Changes in appetite – reduced or increased food intake
- Loss of interest in normal activities
- Recurrent thoughts about suicide
Diagnosis
The physician may assess the individual’s medical history, symptoms apparent and a physical examination to determine the presence of other health ailments. Various lab tests may be necessary to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms that can include a complete blood count to ensure the normal function of the thyroid. A psychological evaluation can determine the condition of the individual’s thoughts and behavior pattern by answering the questionnaire.
Treatment
The treatment can consist of medications and counseling or the combination of both depending on the cases. Antidepressants are usually administered to treat depression which can control the mood or the stress. Anti-depressant medications should not be stopped abruptly without discussing with the physician as it can cause withdrawal-like symptoms. Different types of psychotherapy can be effective for certain individuals that can include cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy.
References
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/basics/treatment/con-20032977
http://www.clinical-depression.co.uk/dlp/depression-information/major-depression-facts/
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000945.htm
