Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a common and serious mental health condition associated with persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in activities once enjoyed. It goes beyond temporary feelings of sadness or grief, significantly impacting your daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. 

What causes depression?

The causes of depression often include a combination of:

Biological factors

Biological factors may include imbalances in your neurotransmitters (brain chemicals), such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, which regulate your mood. Genetics can also play a role, with a family history of depression increasing your risk of developing the condition.

Psychological factors

Psychological factors like negative thinking patterns, low self-esteem, unresolved trauma, or chronic stress can contribute to the onset or exacerbation of depression. 

Environmental factors

Environmental factors such as significant life changes, trauma, loss, abuse, chronic illness, substance misuse, or social isolation can also trigger or worsen depressive symptoms.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Symptoms of depression commonly include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia)
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression can also manifest physically, with symptoms like headaches, digestive issues, muscle aches, and chronic pain, and can vary in intensity and duration.

If you’re thinking of hurting yourself or threatening your life, call 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or 911 immediately.

How is depression treated?

At Point of View Mental Health, Thomas first assesses your mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health.

He then creates a customized treatment plan, which may involve a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications. 

Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is highly effective in helping identify and change your negative thought patterns, develop coping skills, and address underlying issues contributing to your depression.

Thomas may prescribe medication, such as antidepressants, to alleviate your symptoms and rebalance the neurotransmitter levels in your brain.

In addition, lifestyle modifications can help, such as:

• Regular exercise
• Healthy nutrition (e.g., making dietary adjustments, taking vitamins and supplements)
• Adequate sleep
• Stress reduction techniques (e.g., mindfulness, relaxation exercises)
• Social support

Engaging in enjoyable activities can also complement treatment and promote recovery from depression.

If you suffer from depression, help is a phone call or a click away.