Depression

Depression is a mental health disorder characterised by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in daily activities. It can cause a range of emotional and physical symptoms, including fatigue, irritability, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, and physical aches and pains. Depression can be caused by various factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and life events.

As of 2021, depression was estimated to affect over 264 million people globally. According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), about one in six South Africans suffers from anxiety, depression, or substance-use problems. It is also important to note that depression can often go undiagnosed or unreported, so the actual number of people affected may be higher.

Symptoms of depression include: 

1. Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
2. Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
3. Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
4. Fatigue or decreased energy
5. Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering
6. Changes in appetite or weight
7. Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or oversleeping
8. Restlessness, irritability, or agitation
9. Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression has many types, and they are summarised below.

1. Major depression: This type of depression is characterised by a persistent feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in once enjoyable activities.
2. Persistent depressive disorder: This type of depression lasts for at least two years and may have fewer symptoms than major depression but can be just as debilitating.
3. Bipolar depression: This type of depression is also known as manic depression and is characterised by periods of extreme sadness followed by periods of high-energy, manic behaviour.
4. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): This type of depression is related to changes in the seasons and typically occurs during fall and winter.
5. Postpartum depression: This type of depression occurs after giving birth and is characterised by feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion. It is essential to understand that depression can manifest differently in each individual, and it is not a one-size-fits-all disorder.

Although no known cure is available for depression, multiple treatment options can be used to manage the symptoms of depression to minimise their effect on one's daily life. The treatment options are discussed below.

1. Psychotherapy: This is also known as talk therapy, and it involves talking to a mental health professional about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. There are different types of psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioural therapy, interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.
2. Medication: Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can effectively treat depression. Other drugs, such as mood stabilisers and antipsychotics, may also be used in some cases.
3. Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
4. Light therapy involves exposure to bright light for a certain amount of time each day and can be effective for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or depression with a seasonal pattern.
5. Self-care: Practicing self-care strategies, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in relaxing activities, can help improve your overall well-being.
6. Brain stimulation therapies

It's important to remember that treatment for depression may be a combination of these approaches, and it may take time to find the right combination that works for you. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it's essential to speak with a healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Sources

1. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - This government agency provides information on mental health conditions, including depression. You can visit their website at https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml.
2. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) - The APA is a professional organisation of psychiatrists that provides information on depression from a clinical perspective. You can visit their website at https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression.
3. The Mayo Clinic - The Mayo Clinic is a non-profit organisation that provides medical information and resources for patients and providers. They have an excellent page on depression that offers comprehensive information on symptoms, causes, treatments, and self-care. You can visit their website at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007.