| Depression | | Print | |
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Page 1 of 5 Depression is a feeling of sadness – but the experience is such that it exceeds normal sadness or grief. Depression OverviewDepression is a feeling of sadness – but the experience is such that it exceeds normal sadness or grief. More specifically, the sadness experienced in a depressive state is characterized by a greater-than-usual intensity and duration of negative thoughts, moods, and behaviours. This affects your ability to function normally; to work, sleep, eat, and enjoy once-pleasurable activities. Evidence shows that depressive illnesses are disorders of the brain. Magnetic resonance imaging or MRI proves that the brains of people who suffer depression look different from those of other people. The parts of the brain responsible for regulating mood, thinking, sleep, appetite, and behaviour appear to function abnormally. Depression can result from genetic factors, or a trigger such as a stressful situation. The vast majority of sufferers, even those with the most severe depression, can experience improvement with treatment. The first step towards recovery is to visit your doctor, who will analyse the nature of your depression in order to recommend the appropriate treatment, which could be medication, psychotherapy, or electroconvulsive therapy. What is depression?Depression is a feeling of intense sadness characterized by a greater than usual intensity and duration of negative thoughts, moods, and behaviours. Common causes of depressionDepressive illnesses are disorders of the brain. Depression can result from genetic factors or a trigger such as a stressful situation. Main symptoms of depressionThe severity, frequency, and duration of depressive symptoms vary from person to person, ranging from persistent sadness, pessimism, insomnia, and changes in appetite, to suicidal tendencies. Most common treatmentsMedication, psychotherapy, and electroconvulsive therapy are the most common treatments prescribed. The choice, of which one among these will be most suitable, is based on the intensity of depression. Self-care and prevention of depressionLifestyle changes, and cultivating healthy habits, can go a long way in curing depression.
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