Feeling sad is a typical and healthy human emotion. We all experience moments of sadness that can last anywhere from a few minutes, days or even weeks. But when should you explore if your sadness is a potential symptom of depression?
Depression is a serious — but common —mood disorder that can severely impact a person’s ability to function in their daily lives. If you are diagnosed with a mood disorder, you can’t just ‘snap out of it’ or ‘get on with your life.’ You will need evidence-based treatment and professional support to ensure you have the right strategies to manage the condition.
What are the Symptoms of Depression?
Depression presents itself differently in everyone and has a wide range of symptoms. You might be suffering from depression if you are experiencing the following common symptoms persistently for at least two weeks:
- Sadness or anxiety
- Decreased energy
- Lack of interest in things you once enjoyed
- Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Suicidal thoughts
- Appetite or weight changes
Causes of Depression
It’s a common misconception that successful, positive people are immune to depression. Depression is a mood disorder that can affect anyone, regardless of age, temperament or personality.
For the most part, people become depressed due to a combination of genetic, environmental and psychological factors. For example, a traumatic experience like the death of a family member or losing your job can trigger depression.
Treatment Options
Depression is treatable no matter how severe your symptoms might be. That’s why it’s important to not suffer alone. When you are diagnosed with major depression disorder, your Care Team will help come up with the treatment plan that best suits your needs. This may include a combination of medication and therapy.
Medication
Antidepressants are very effective in treating and managing the symptoms of depression. Since they take 2-4 weeks to kick in, you will need to be patient. It can also take time to find the right medication(s) and doses for you. Your doctor will work with you to find a medication that best addresses your symptoms.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that can help you learn to change negative thinking patterns associated with depression. CBT requires active participation through homework and a willingness to change habits.
Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
Some people with depression might benefit from interpersonal therapy (IPT). This type of therapy helps relieve the symptoms of depression by improving a person’s interpersonal skills and relationships with others. It focuses on current relationships and helps address stresses and communication issues that may be contributing to depression.
Tips on Living With Depression
In addition to clinical treatment options, there are many actions you can take to help improve your mood and relieve some of the depression symptoms.
- Reach out to family and friends for support and be honest with how you are feeling
- Exercise to increase endorphins – your ‘feel good’ hormones
- Set small, achievable goals so you don’t get overwhelmed
- Learn to practice mindfulness
- Avoid consuming alcohol or drugs
- Eat healthily and regularly
Do you think you might be experiencing signs of depression? We’re here to help.
Reach out to our iHealthOX Care Team to discuss your symptoms and determine the best next steps for you.
Sources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/basics/depression
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-in-women
https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/depression/treatment-management
https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/interpersonal-psychotherapy
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/clinical-depression/living-with/
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