Sadness, feeling down and having a loss of interest in all things are familiar feelings for all of us. But if they persist and affect our lives substantially, this is as a result of depression.
Depression is the main cause of disability Trusted Source worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). It can affect adults, adolescents, and children.
Depression is the inability of someone to see a bright future, resulting in low morale, which may last longer than expected as a result of many things.
Definition: Depression is a mood disorder that involves a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It is different from the mood fluctuations that people regularly experience as a part of life.
Depression is an ongoing problem, not a passing one. It consists of episodes during which the symptoms last for at least 2 weeks. Depression can last for several weeks, months, or years.
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Signs and symptoms
The symptoms of depression can include:
- a depressed mood
- changes in appetite
- unintentional weight loss or gain
- sleeping too much or too little
- seeing oneself as worthless
- difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
- suicide attempt
- avoiding social activities
Causes
The medical community does not fully understand the causes of depression. There are many possible causes, and sometimes, various factors combine to trigger symptoms.
Factors that are likely to play a role include:
- Low self-esteem
- Inadequate emotional support
- Changes in the brain’s neurotransmitter levels
- Job loss or unemployment
- Unacceptability among peers
Treatment
Psychotherapy may help a person manage their symptoms of depression.
Depression is treatable, and managing symptoms usually involves different components
Support: This can range from discussing practical solutions and possible causes in educating family members.
Psychotherapy: Also known as talking therapy, which includes one-to-one counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy.
Food and Diet
The study also found that eating more of the following foods helped reduce depression symptoms:
- fruit
- vegetables
- fish
- olive oil
Exercise Aerobic exercise raises endorphin levels and stimulates the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which is linked with mood. This may help relieve mild depression
