Depression is a condition where the sufferer has an intense feeling of sadness, loss of pleasure, or hopelessness, and this sadness can last for weeks, months, or even years. Although the causes of depression are still largely unknown, there are some common characteristics. These include difficulty concentrating or following events, feelings of hopelessness, and a denial of your own worth or value. If you suffer from these symptoms, you should seek help and talk with a medical professional to determine if you are suffering from depression.
There are several different types of treatment for depression. Psychotherapy is a common form of treatment. It can involve the individual, family, or couples. In this type of therapy, the patient reveals feelings and thoughts that may have remained hidden. Psychotherapy can also involve group sessions, which bring people with similar illnesses together. The goal of group therapy is to help participants learn from how other people deal with similar situations. A course of treatment for depression can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, but usually a minimum of 10 to 15 sessions are necessary for significant improvement.
Depression is one of the most treatable mental illnesses, and 80% to 90% of patients respond to treatment. It is essential that you seek help from a health professional as soon as possible. Your health professional will perform a thorough evaluation, which will include a physical examination and interview with the sufferer. Your GP may also run blood tests to rule out any medical problems that may be causing your depression symptoms.
The causes of depression are not specific, but many factors can combine to create the condition. For example, you may experience depression after an illness, an accident, or a traumatic event. These things can set off a “downward spiral” of events, leading to a depressed state. Relationship breakups, for example, can lead to an intense low-grade mood that may lead to increased drinking or social isolation. While you can suffer from depression at any age, it’s much more common in women than in men.
Depression may run in families. Studies show that relatives of depressed people are more likely to develop it. There are genetic and environmental factors that influence the risk of depression. People with low self-esteem may be at a higher risk for developing depression. Moreover, people with a low self-esteem and a history of mental illness may be more susceptible to depression than other people.
Stress from major life events, such as job loss, divorce, or moving, can also increase the risk of developing depression. Other factors may trigger the onset of depression, including personal conflict and abuse. Also, being isolated from social groups and having a severe illness can lead to depression.