Is Depression A Disease? Mental Health And Major Depressive Disorder
Depression can feel overwhelming. However, understanding what it is, how it occurs and different supplementary strategies available for treatment can empower those living with this affective disorder to seek a higher quality of life.
Below, we summarize what you need to know about depression. We’ll also be exploring the role that online therapy with a mental health professional can play in recovery and depression support.
Definition and causes of depression in mental health
Depression is generally believed to be a complex mental health disorder that may affect many aspects of an individual's functioning and state of mind.
Common symptoms of depression
People who have been diagnosed with depression may feel intense sadness, lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed, struggle with making decisions, have changes in sleep patterns or appetite, and struggle to concentrate or feel motivated.
Depression and its causes: Is depression a disease?
Depression can be challenging to diagnose due to its wide range of symptoms. With proper care and treatment, however, individuals may have the ability to manage depressive symptoms and work towards living more satisfying lives. Understanding the possible causes of depression can be a strong first step to healing for some.
There are generally many potential causes of depression—including biological, environmental, and psychological factors.
Biological, environmental, and psychological factors in depression
Biologically, depression may be caused by imbalances in the brain's chemical signals or a family history of the disorder. Environmental factors such as stress, trauma, or a lack of social support may also contribute to the development of depression. Psychological factors such as negative thinking patterns or a history of mental health conditions can also play a role for some.
If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.
Debating the nature of depression in major depressive disorder
The debate on the nature of depression is ongoing. Some experts may view major depressive disorder as a disease, and others generally view it as a symptom. Those who view depression as a disease might argue that it can result from an imbalance in the brain's chemical signals or genetics, and requires medical treatment to be appropriately managed.
Understanding different perspectives on depression
On the other hand, those who view depression as a symptom might believe that it results from environmental or psychological risk factors—such as stress or negative thinking patterns, and may be more effectively treated with therapy or self-care strategies.
Major depressive disorder: A dual perspective on mental health
We do want to note that both viewpoints generally have valid points and that the true nature of major depressive disorder may be a combination of biological and environmental/psychological factors. It is also thought by many to be rooted in a patient’s individual experience.
Scientifically supported self-care strategies to help those living with depression
Self-care generally refers to individuals' actions taken to maintain their physical, mental, and emotional health. It can be a key part of managing depression and helping to prevent the recurrence of symptoms.
Self-care strategies for individuals with depression
Below are a few self-care strategies for individuals who experience depression:
Exercise: Regular physical activity has been clinically suggested to improve mood and reduce the risk of depression. It can be as simple as walking or participating in a structured exercise program—or whatever else feels doable to the person experiencing depression.
Sleep: Getting enough sleep can be helpful in managing depression-related symptoms and improving your overall health. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can be a helpful step if you are experiencing trouble sleeping as a result of depression.
Diet: A healthy, well-balanced diet may support physical and mental health, and can impact the symptomatic manifestation of depression. This can include consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as well as following personalized dietary advice from a trusted physician or dietician.
Relaxation techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga might help to reduce stress and improve mood swings that can be associated with major depressive disorder.
Social support: Building and maintaining solid relationships with family and friends can provide a sense of connection and may also be a valuable source of support during difficult times.
These self-care strategies can be used as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan for depression, along with online therapy or medication. They can also be beneficial for people experiencing other mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, seasonal affective disorder, or another mood disorder.
How can online therapy support those experiencing depression?
Online therapy can provide a greater means of entry to mental health professionals and resources for those experiencing depression. This form of therapy can be held conveniently from home or another safe location, quickly connecting people with depression to resources that might help. This can make support a more attainable goal for those who may experience difficulty getting out of bed.
The efficacy of online therapy for treating depression
Many clinical sources agree that online therapy can be an effective means of addressing major depression (major depressive disorder), other types of depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders. A study published in 2012 in Behavior Research & Therapy explored the efficacy of online therapy for the treatment of depression.
Effectiveness of online therapy for depression
The study found that individuals who participated in the program showed significant reductions in symptoms of depression compared to those who did not participate as a direct result of virtual intervention. These findings suggest the positive potential of online therapy to be an effective treatment for symptoms of depression.
Takeaway
What is depression?
Several types of depression are listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). These include major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), premenstrual dysphoric disorder, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, postpartum and perinatal depression, and seasonal affective disorder.
Depression is generally known to be a complex mental illness that can affect individuals' mood and overall level of functioning. Common symptoms of depression include a persistent feeling of sadness or depressed mood, low self-esteem, changes in appetite or weight, fatigue, loss of interest, difficulty concentrating, and frequent or recurrent thoughts of death. Other symptoms include physical aches and pain, irritability, and agitation.
What causes depression?
Depression may be caused by biological, environmental, and psychological factors, such as stress, negative thinking patterns, or one’s family history and genetic predispositions. Changes in brain chemistry, particularly those neurotransmitters that are thought to play a crucial role in mood regulation, also present a risk for the development of depression. Stressful events such as divorce, loss, trauma, and stress can trigger other symptoms of depression. Medical conditions such as chronic pain and heart disease, as well as certain medications, can also increase the risk of developing depression. Substance use and alcohol can also make one’s symptoms and depressive episodes worse. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also contribute to depression, causing perinatal depression. Depression is a complex medical condition caused by an interplay of risk factors; having one of the factors doesn’t guarantee the development of depression. Individuals must seek treatment if they’re experiencing depressive episodes.
Is depression treatable?
Depression is generally treatable with proper care and support. Treatment options may include professional online cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and self-care strategies. Licensed mental health professionals may prescribe antidepressant medications to manage your depressive episodes. In cases of treatment-resistant depression, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be recommended. A psychiatrist can answer questions about the possible side effects of ECT. Aside from psychotherapy and antidepressant medications, other brain stimulation therapies like deep brain stimulation (DBS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) are also effective treatment options for those people who have severe depression or treatment-resistant depression.
The above treatments are designed for those who are not in an immediate crisis. Individuals may consult their healthcare provider for other effective treatments for severe or mild depression. Those who are experiencing suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm can obtain immediate assistance by calling or texting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
How can I recognize the signs of depression?
Signs of depression can vary depending on one’s personal experiences. However, many may experience certain symptoms, such as intense sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep patterns or appetite, difficulty concentrating or feeling motivated, and physical symptoms—such as fatigue, aches, pains, or headaches during depressive episodes. Depression symptoms that last for at least two weeks can be an indication of major depressive disorder. In the ICD-11, major depressive disorder is classified as either single-episode depressive disorder or recurrent depressive disorder. Individuals with depression may experience one or multiple episodes during which the symptoms occur most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. A major depressive episode is a significant indicator of major depressive disorder.
Severe depression can have adverse effects on individuals, such as increased risk of suicide attempts, weight gain or weight loss, medical conditions, substance misuse, and impairments in functioning and relationships, which is why seeking a professional is essential to receive effective treatments for depression. It’s crucial to seek help from your healthcare provider. They can give you an accurate diagnosis of your condition. To diagnose depression and other mental disorders, mental health professionals may use a combination of clinical interview, physical exam, and lab tests for a comprehensive psychological assessment. Various treatment options are available for treating depressive episodes, including talk therapy, antidepressant medications, and self-care strategies.
Is depression considered a disease?
Some experts see it as a disease due to biological factors, while others view it as a symptom of deeper issues. According to the American Psychiatric Association, women and younger adults are more likely to experience depression than men and older adults. More women than men are diagnosed with depression, but this finding may be because more women than men are motivated to seek treatment. Men and older adults may be less likely to report their symptoms.
Is depression a disease or a mood?
Depression isn’t just a temporary mood; it’s a complex mental health condition. Some experts consider it a disease because it can involve biological factors like chemical imbalances or genetics, while others see it as a symptom of deeper issues. Depression, also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, involves persistent feelings of depressed mood, low self-esteem, sleep problems, difficulty concentrating, excessive guilt, loss of interest, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts. According to statistics, more than 700,000 people worldwide die by suicide every year. Suicide is considered the fourth leading cause of death among 15- to 29-year-olds globally. If you or someone you know is dealing with thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm, seek professional help immediately. Call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Can diseases cause depression?
Yes, certain medical conditions or chronic illnesses can contribute to depression. The stress and biological changes brought on by these diseases may trigger or worsen depressive symptoms. According to studies, patients with a medical condition like heart disease tend to experience comorbid depression. Other specific illnesses that can contribute to a higher depression risk include stroke, cancer, chronic pain, and diabetes. Individuals with these underlying medical conditions must receive proper treatment to prevent depression and other comorbid mental disorders from developing.
Are stress and depression the disease?
No. Stress is a natural reaction to challenges, not a disease. While chronic stress can contribute to developing depression, depression itself is a distinct mental health condition.
Is stress a disease or disorder?
Stress is a natural response to challenges and isn’t classified as a disease, though chronic stress can lead to health problems. Stressful events such as financial difficulties, trauma, social isolation, loss, and significant life changes can increase the risk of someone developing depression. Individuals who feel depressed or struggle with stressful life events may seek professional help through talk therapy. They may also try self-care strategies such as practicing mindfulness, meditation, yoga, reading, or joining a support group to manage stress and prevent depression.
What are the 4 main causes of depression?
They are generally seen as:
Biological factors (such as brain chemical imbalances)
Genetic predisposition
Environmental influences (like stress, trauma, or lack of social support)
Psychological factors (including negative thinking patterns)
Other factors that can contribute to a higher depression risk include physical illness, certain medications, and substance use disorders. Identifying these underlying factors is crucial for accurately diagnosing depression and other related mental disorders.
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