Depression is a severe mental illness and is the same as having a physical condition. Because of this, you need treatment to manage it. According to experts, the best way to get out of depression is to make lifestyle changes and see a professional.
Depression can occur to anyone at any age. Children can also get depression. The illness in children can be a result of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), conduct disorder (CD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD),
Causes of depression
Sometimes the reason behind depression is apparent, while other times, it is not. There are a few factors that could make you prone to depression. These include stress, a traumatic incident, a family history of depression, some medications, and making significant changes in your life. Experts believe the cause of depression can be a combination of these factors.
Hormonal changes can also cause depression. Doctors commonly observe this in women during pregnancy, menopause and after childbirth when their hormone levels fluctuate. A chemical imbalance in your brain could also lead to depression.
Depression comes with an array of symptoms. These include irritability, a feeling of worthlessness, loss of interest in your hobbies, suicidal tendencies, unexplained headaches or backaches, lost or increased appetite and insomnia or sleeping excessively.
Treatment for depression
Doctors treat depression with psychotherapy, medication or both. Medication could take 2-4 weeks before it starts to work. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, can help you get through past traumatic events, get rid of negative thoughts and find healthy coping strategies.
Antidepressants can have side effects. Some of these side effects go away after a few weeks. However, some might not and could be very serious. Tricyclic antidepressants, for instance, may cause blurred vision, dry mouth, heart problems and dizziness.
Lifestyles changes might also help manage your depression. Such changes include connecting with loved ones, exercising regularly and reading self-help books.
If a chemical imbalance causes your depression, you might find that you have to treat your depression for the rest of your life. Lifelong treatment is also the case for severe depression.
If you believe that confiding in a loved one about your condition can be helpful, you could always reach out to a supportive friend or family member.
