Symptoms Finder

Depression

Overview

Depression is a mental disorder, which is very common and serious. It influences your everyday mood, thoughts, as well as behaviors. It is more than just sadness. It may take weeks, months or even years. Depressed individuals can lose enthusiasm in those activities that they found enjoyable. It may affect sleep, eating, relationships, and job. In serious cases it can cause thoughts of self-harm. Depression is treatable. Early treatment enhances life and healing.

Depression: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Guide

What is Depression?

Depression is a mood disorder. It leaves behind a constant sense of depression and dejection. It influences physical and emotional well-being. It is not the same as temporary mood changes. We are all low occasionally. Depression is protracted and disruptive to everyday life. One of the forms is Major Depressive Disorder. It needs medical care.

Types of Depression

Major Depressive Disorder 

Symptoms lasting at least two weeks and severe. It interferes with everyday activities.

Persistent Depressive Disorder 

Also called dysthymia. Symptoms are mild and last several years.

Bipolar Depression 

Occurs in Bipolar Disorder. It involves high and low mood swings.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) 

Takes place in some seasons, usually in winter.

Postpartum Depression 

Happens after childbirth. It influences emotional attachment. 

High Functioning Depression 

The individuals who look fine but who have difficulties with their inside.

Symptoms of Depression

The symptoms are different with individuals. Common signs include: 

  • Constant melancholy or emptiness. 
  • Deprivation of pleasure in activities. 
  • Fatigue or low energy 
  • Difficulty in sleeping or excessive sleepiness. 
  • Changes in appetite 
  • Difficulty concentrating 
  • Guilt or uselessness. 
  • Thoughts of death or suicide 

Physical symptoms can consist of a headache and body pain.

Depression: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Guide
Depression: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Guide

Causes and Risk Factors

Variations of causes of depression include: 

Biological Factors: There is an imbalance in brain chemistry. Involved are hormones and neurotransmitters. 

Genetics: There is a risk in family history. 

Life Events: Depression can be caused by trauma, loss or stress. 

Medications: Some drugs may affect mood. For example: Some cases of Adderall (can adderall cause depression). The only one rarely related is Eliquis ([does eliquis cause depression or anxiety]). ( [can adderall help with depression)) is controversial and requires medical oversight. Substance Use. Yes, it may make you feel bad in the long run, that is, [is nicotine a depressant]? 

Tests and Diagnosis

Doctors use several methods: Clinical Evaluation, An individual with mental health inquires of symptoms and history, Screening Tools 

Common scales include: PHQ-9, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale.

Medical Tests: Other conditions are eliminated with blood tests. The diagnosis is based on the DSM-5. 

ICD-10 Code of Depression 

ICD-10 codes of depression include: F32: Depressive episode, F33: Recurrent depressive disorder.

Depression: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Guide

Treatment

Depending on the severity: 

  • Psychotherapy 
  • Talk therapy is used to control thoughts and feelings. 
  • Medications 
  • Antidepressants level the brain chemicals. 
  • Lifestyle Changes 
  • Symptoms are enhanced by exercise, sleep and nutrition. 
  • Advanced Treatments 
  • Brain stimulation therapies are included. 

It can be applicable in certain circumstances but under strict supervision ([does adderall help with depression]) may be used. 

Living With Depression 

Depression is a long-term condition: Maintain a routine, Stay socially connected, Practice stress management, Avoid alcohol and drugs. 

Family and professional support matters: (is major depressive disorder a disability) yes, it can be, in extreme situations. Depending on severity and local laws, ([can you get disability for depression]) is determined. 

Complications of Depression 

Depression without treatment may result in: 

  • Substance abuse 
  • Relationship problems 
  • Physical health issues 
  • Suicide risk

It may also have an impact on work and education. Even pets can experience some emotional changes. The following are real questions in animal behavior: ([can dogs be depressed]) and ([how to tell if my dog is depressed]). 

Depression: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Guide

FAQS

When was high functioning depression called?

The term is informal. It is not a formal diagnosis but it is popular.

Religion tends to promote hope and patience and support.

Yes, in certain persons, at least by abuse.

Rarely reported. See a doctor when you have symptoms.