Depression is a serious mental health concern that impacts all areas of your life, including relationships, career, and overall well-being. It may cause feelings of sadness, mood disorders, loss of interest in daily activities, anxiety, and sleep difficulty. 

Working with a mental health professional in UAE or elsewhere is an important step to coping with stressors and switching from negative to positive thinking. Together, you can address the root cause and find ways to boost self-esteem, eliminate negative thinking patterns, and practice mindfulness.

What is Depression?

Depression (also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression) causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest or pleasure. It adversely affects how you feel, think, and behave which can result in a variety of emotional and physical problems. 

Keep in mind, depression isn’t a sign of weakness and you’re not alone in this journey. Fortunately, it is treatable via therapy so search for an Indian psychologist near me and get an effective treatment plan to lead a rewarding life. 

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

Depression can lead to various psychological and physical problems, including:

• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities

• Persistent depression mood

• Fatigue or low energy

• Excessive feelings of guilt or worthlessness

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Suicidal thoughts 

• Difficulty sleeping 

• Changes in appetite or body weight

Types of Depression

• Major Depression

A person with major depression can experience a constant state of sadness. They may start to lose interest in activities once they used to enjoy. Treatment usually includes psychotherapy or medication, or both.

• Persistent Depressive Disorder

A person with this disorder may experience episodes of major depression and mild symptoms. Also known as dysthymia, the symptoms usually last for at least 2 years.

• Postpartum Depression

After giving birth, some people experience a short period of sadness or heightened emotions. This typically goes away in a few days or weeks. Anyone who experiences ongoing depression after delivery should seek medical attention.

• Major Depressive Disorder with Seasonal Pattern

This type of depression occurs during the winter and fall season when there is less daylight. This condition specifically affects people who live in countries with long or severe winters.

Depression Triggers

Triggers are emotional, psychological, or physical events that can cause depression symptoms. Common triggers include:

• Stressful life events, such as the loss of a loved one, family conflicts, and changes in relationships

• Incomplete recovery 

• Medical conditions, such as chronic illness 

Risk Factors

Experiencing life events, such as work issues, bereavement, changes in relationships, financial problems, etc.

• Experiencing acute stress

• Sustained a head injury

• Had a previous episode of major depression

• Having a chronic condition

• Living with neurodegenerative problem

• Lacking social support

Depression Treatment

Although depression is treatable, the treatment may vary depending on the type of condition you have. Managing depression symptoms usually involve three components:

1. Support 

If you suspect depression symptoms, seek professional help from a mental health specialist. A qualified practitioner can address causes, ensure an accurate diagnosis, and provide effective treatment. They will ask you questions about symptoms and suggest a treatment plan to overcome your mental health issues.

2. Talk Therapy

Talking therapy or counselling for depression includes cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, and problem-solving treatment. CBT focuses on helping an individual understand the connection between their thoughts, behaviours, and feelings. It can be useful to change harmful thoughts and behavioural patterns.

It aims to help people determine:

• Emotional problems that affect relationships and communication

• How such issues affect their mood

• How to better manage emotions

3. Lifestyle Modifications

People with depression often face low self-esteem, so find ways to feel better about yourself. Ensure to make lifestyle changes to improve your quality of life, such as eating a healthy diet, doing regular exercise, and spending time with your friends and family who make you feel good about yourself.

Conclusion:

Depression is a serious medical condition that can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Since it is treatable via therapy and certain lifestyle changes, seeking treatment from a mental health expert may increase your chances of recovery. Every person is different and therefore, a practitioner gives a tailored treatment plan to help manage your depression symptoms.