Understanding Depression As A Complex Mental Disorder

In today’s stressful world, complex mental disorders are affecting people of all ages rapidly. Among the many mental health conditions, there is depression. It is the most common and serious illness influencing the way you feel, think, and act every day. 

Depression is classified as a mood disorder with extreme feelings of sadness, loss, and anger interfering with daily activities and productivity. You may experience grief, self-loathing, and damaged self-esteem.

Learning about a severe mental condition from the top depression treatment therapy expert can help you recognize and save someone else’s life.

Causes of Depression

The primary cause of depression is unknown. However, it is suspected to be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Several factors can work as a trigger for this mental condition including - 

• Family history of depression

• Experiencing traumatic and stressful events such as violence, assault, etc. 

• Major life changes

• Medical problems like cancer, stroke, or chronic pain

• Certain medications

• Alcohol and drug abuse

• Imbalance in brain chemistry

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

One can identify the presence of depression through signs and symptoms over the course of days and weeks. The diagnosis of depression by mental health experts near me is done through these signs.

• Constantly feeling sad and anxious

• Feeling irritable and restless

• Excessive frustration

• Insomnia or hypersomnia

• Change in appetite i.e eating too little or too much

• Experiencing aches, pains, headaches, and stomach problems

• Trouble in concentration

• Low attentiveness

• Feeling tiresome

• Feeling guilty

• Suicidal thoughts and actions

Treatment of Depression

Good treatment is effective in reducing the symptoms and treating depression at a deeper level. As depression treatment therapy experts suggest, this treatment can include medications and therapy to conquer the condition.

• Therapy

Tons of people suffering from depression benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. It primarily focuses on analyzing your thoughts, feelings, issues, traumas, and everything happening in your life. It helps in understanding your past and addresses your current mental state accordingly. Therapy also prepares you to cope with future challenges. 

Work with your therapist to learn new life skills, strengthen your mind, alter behavior, and find solutions to your problem. Don’t show embarrassment and be honest about your feelings. Your main objective should be getting better. 

• Medication

Depending upon your condition, you may also be prescribed some antidepressants or other medications. These medicines help improve your mood and coping skills. Consult your concerned doctor to know what’s right for you. Please adhere to the medications prescribed to you.

It is also recommended to quit smoking while using antidepressants. The doctor may recommend a few kinds of antidepressants as sometimes it takes a while to find the most suitable one for you. Be aware of the medications you take and remember –

1. Follow the instructions given with the medication. Some people feel better after a few days of taking medication while others might take up to 4 weeks.

2. You might experience side effects. It may take some time for your body to adjust to the medication. 

3. Don’t stop taking medication without consulting the doctor. Suddenly, giving up on medication may worsen your depression.

4. Antidepressants may cause risks during pregnancy. 

5. Antidepressants are not the ultimate solution. Keep a check on your mood and thoughts. Immediately contact the doctor in case of suicidal thoughts.

Conclusion

Depression is among the most common mental health disorder. It alters a person's mood, thoughts, and overall drive to carry on everyday tasks. It is caused due to a plethora of reasons including genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. If you experience the symptoms of the same, consult a doctor for therapy and medication.

Dr. Girish Subramanyan is one of the leading mental health experts near me with over 20 years of expertise. He helps you deal with consultation and treatment of complex mental health disorders with his knowledge of the subject.