Depression
What causes depression? Learn about its main symptoms and risk factors, as well as tips to combat it.
Symptoms and Causes
Depression is a disorder that affects emotions and triggers a constant feeling of sadness. This mood is accompanied by other behavioral changes that limit social relationships and, in some cases, physical activity.
Depression can be mistaken for temporary sadness, but they are very different. The main difference is that recovering from depression is much slower and requires professional help—it is not a mood that a person can simply "snap out of," unlike temporary sadness.
There are different types of depression depending on its severity, the triggering factors, and the symptoms that appear. The most notable include:
- Major depression: Genetic factors play a greater role in its development than external influences.
- Reactive depression: Occurs due to difficulty adapting to routine changes or facing stressful situations.
- Dysthymia: Symptoms are mild but persist chronically for years, without periods of relief. It is often related to prolonged stress or personality traits.
- Masked depression: Manifests through physical symptoms or behavioral changes but does not display the most characteristic emotional traits.
- Anxious depression: Combines sadness with extreme worry about potential future events.
- Postpartum or perinatal depression: Can begin in the last weeks of pregnancy or several months after childbirth.
Symptoms
Some symptoms of depression are highly recognizable and common among all patients. However, other signs of the disease may go unnoticed, making awareness essential for early detection. These include:
- Sadness that manifests as hopelessness and feelings of emptiness.
- Anxiety and restlessness.
- Irritability, frustration, and anger, even in minor situations.
- Extreme fatigue that interferes with daily activities.
- Sleep disturbances: insomnia or excessive sleeping.
- Eating disorders: cravings or loss of appetite.
- Unexplained physical problems.
- Suicidal thoughts.
Causes
Depression is usually caused by a combination of various factors. On the one hand, biological aspects such as genetics, hormonal changes, or neurotransmitter imbalances play a role. On the other hand, external circumstances like sudden lifestyle changes or stressful situations can trigger symptoms. Personality also plays a significant role in the development of depression, particularly the defense mechanisms each individual possesses.
Risk Factors
Some individuals are more prone to depression due to certain influencing factors, such as:
- Pessimistic or dependent personality.
- Low self-esteem.
- Family history of depression.
- Previous mental disorders.
- Stressful or traumatic situations.
- Alcohol and drug abuse.
- Severe or chronic illnesses.
- Certain medications.
Complications
Depression affects every aspect of the sufferer’s life, as well as the lives of their family members. When symptoms are severe or left untreated, they can become disabling. Additionally, the condition can lead to physical pain, social isolation, obesity, substance abuse, self-harm, or suicide attempts.
Prevention
Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent depression, certain attitudes and habits can be highly beneficial when early symptoms appear:
- Reducing stress.
- Seeking help from family and friends.
- Consulting a mental health specialist.
- Adhering to treatment for the necessary duration.
Which Doctor Treats Depression?
To achieve the expected results, depression should be treated by a clinical psychologist, and in some cases, also by a psychiatrist.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of depression can be made when symptoms persist for several weeks. A psychological evaluation is conducted, sometimes supplemented with additional tests, usually to rule out physical conditions.
Treatment
Regardless of its severity, depression typically responds well to psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. Due to the nature of the condition, a mental health professional will prescribe the most suitable option for each case and offer a personalized approach for every patient.
During therapy, individuals receive emotional support and gain insight into the mechanisms of the illness. Additionally, they learn strategies to minimize their concerns and view their life without distortions.
The most commonly used medications are antidepressants and anxiolytics, although psychostimulants have also shown positive results.
