Depression

Sadness is our reaction to not getting what we want or losing what we have. It’s a part of life to feel sadness when we experience loss or heartbreak. However, when sadness turns into sleepless nights, fatigue, lack of appetite, concentration, energy, the usual joy for life, or thoughts of not wanting to be alive, it has progressed into depression. Depression is a common mental health issue that can be chronic, progressive, and fatal if left untreated.

Types of Depressive Disorders

The Diagnostic Statistical Manual describes several depressive disorders including major depressive disorder, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, persistent depressive disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and substance/medication-induced depressive disorder.

What’s the Cause?

We all feel sadness from time to time, it’s an important experience which reminds us of what we value in life. Sadness and guilt challenge us to do things differently. However, when these emotions cause significant challenges and affect our ability to function effectively in all areas of our life, they can develop into depressive disorders. Most people develop depressive disorders as a result of a combination of different “risk factors such as neurobiological factors, genetic markers, environmental factors, and life experiences,” (Anxiety.com).

Treating Depression

There are many research-based strategies to manage/treat depressive disorders. Psychotherapy may include interventions such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, or Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.

According to Psychology Today.com, “psychotherapy is at least as effective as medication, and the most effective treatment for many people may be a combination of both.” When medication and psychotherapy are not effective, alternative treatments may be employed. Alternative treatments may include, but are not limited to, brain stimulation therapies like ECT or TMS or other pharmaceutical treatments like ketamine infusions/injections.

Practices such as mindfulness/meditation, relaxation/self-soothing strategies, exercise, healthy diet, and rest have also been shown to be beneficial.