Depression
Chronic depression is a mental illness that manifests in a range of symptoms, such as persistently low spirit, severe onslaught of guilt, feelings of worthlessness, low self-esteem, disturbed sleep, and low energy level. It can also lead to many somatic symptoms like pains and aches. At the very least, chronic exposure to depression or depressive thoughts can make you dysfunctional, and in its severest form, depression can even endanger self-harm and suicide. State of chronic or prolonged depression must not be suppressed and might require an urgent visit to a depression management centre. Depression is known to cause the impression that you are guilty or you deserve nothing better. However, that is not the true reality. It is your sick mind bringing you down with harsh criticism. And there are many management options and effective treatments to keep the symptoms of depression at bay. The occasional sensation of feeling down is a normal and legitimate emotion. However, when this sense of feeling down becomes pathological and persistent, you should consult a mental health specialist or visit a depression management centre as soon as possible.
The Symptoms of Depression
The symptoms of chronic depression usually revolve around the followings:
- Persistent low mood
- Frequent irritability
- Sleep disorders
- Low self-esteem
- Lack of motivation for work
- Feeling of guilt
- Anxiety
- Fatigue, back pain, and headache
- Sexual disenchantment
Confused about your treatment options?
Confused about your treatment options?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is depression?
Though we all may feel down or sad from time to time in our life, depression is an altogether different kind of condition. It is pathological and can impair your life to a significant extent. Prolonged exposure to depression can take away your willingness to enjoy or live life, as well as your ability to work, study or establish social bonds.
What are the treatments for depression?
At a depression management centre, the treatment for depression usually combines a bunch of therapeutic approaches, and the efficacy of the treatment plan varies depending on the individual and the degree of the condition. The common treatment options are the followings:
- Psychotherapy: Psychotherapeutic procedures, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis, and counseling, can help patients get an idea of the root causes of their depression.
- Medications : Anti-depressant medications, such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) are often prescribed to counteract the approach of depression.
- Lifestyle changes : Making alterations in your lifestyle and minimizing the usage of alcohol and other recreational drugs can significantly allay depressive episodes.
- Support groups : Partaking in different support groups and engaging in peer support can provide valuable mental fortitude to endure the onslaughts of depression.
What are the causes of depression?
Depression is an intricate mental health condition that can sprout from several roots, such as biological factors (Imbalances in the brain chemicals, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine), genetic factors, psychological factors (abuse, loss of loved ones, financial difficulties, isolation, stress) substance abuse.
*Dr. Subhadeep Roy is one of the experienced Neuropsychiatrists in Kolkata, who offer the best depression treatment in Kolkata.