How Depression Works?

Symptoms of Depression

First, I want to emphasize that it is normal to feel depressed at times. Most people do. It is important to clarify when we use the word “depression” to indicate whether we refer to feelings of depression or refer to a mood disorder, such as Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, etc. Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder can include an increased or decreased appetite, decreased energy (although sometimes energy can increase when the person also experiences “anxious distress”), loss of motivation, low self-esteem, thoughts of death or suicidal ideation, increased sleep (hypersomnia) or less sleep (insomnia). If you have been experiencing any suicidal thoughts, reach out for help immediately. You can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Please note that some people try to look at symptoms of mental health disorders and try to diagnose themselves; even if you are experiencing these symptoms, it does not mean that you necessarily have Major Depressive Disorder. You will want to receive a diagnostic assessment by someone licensed to diagnose mental health disorders.

Treatment of Depression

Again, most people who feel depressed at times will feel better quickly without any mental health treatment. However, if experiencing thoughts of hurting oneself or others, getting help immediately is imperative. You can reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

However, for those with a mood disorder, the good news is that mental health treatment can be highly effective. Research shows that therapy alone can reduce symptoms, and medication alone can reduce symptoms, but the combination of therapy and psychotropic medications have the best outcomes. Therapy often involves Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which helps the client identify thinking patterns associated with the depression and use new, more rational self-talk statements. Therapy can also involve learning new coping skills and mindfulness strategies, as well as behavioral activation. There are also numerous antidepressant options. The most commonly prescribed antidepressant medications belong to a group called SSRIs. Finally, managing depression often involves making lifestyle changes, such as incorporating coping skills, participating in new activities, seeking more social support, being exposed to bright light during winter months, using meditation and other mindfulness strategies, using assertive communication, setting boundaries, and making changes with regards to food intake, exercise, and sleep. Ultimately, help is available, and while it may take some time (often 8-12 sessions of counseling and/or a few weeks of psychotropic medications) to see major changes, you could start experiencing some relief of your depression right away.