There are people who like to trivialise depression, which is not a good thing, as depression is real. A chunk of individuals are suffering from mental disorders that affect their day-to-day living. Through research and brain scans, specialists have realised that people are being affected by various kinds of depressive disorders. These groundbreaking insights have paved the way for the development of precise and effective treatments that offer hope to those affected by depression. If you suspect that you may have a depressive disorder, you can visit a mental health specialist near you for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Is Depression?
This mental condition is a depressive disorder that affects your mood, causing you to have a constant feeling of sadness that can last for extended periods and make you lose interest in doing things you once loved, reducing your ability to experience pleasure. It is believed to be triggered by stress, genetics, or an imbalance in brain chemistry, among others. Moreover, depressive disorders can affect your work, relationships, social life, and so on, resulting in a poor quality of life. Physical symptoms of depression include irregular sleep patterns, low energy, and weight changes. This condition also has some cognitive indicators, such as difficulty concentrating and challenges in making decisions.
Distinct Types Of depression
Various types of depressive disorder have their own unique characteristics and symptoms, as they are not the same. Let’s delve into some of the variations of depressive disorder:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) – This type of depression is characterised by two major depressive episodes, characterised by symptoms like a sad mood, irregular sleep patterns, weight changes, loss of interest, and many others. This depressive disorder can also be marked by symptoms like feelings of guilt and worthlessness. In some instances, people affected by MDD may have suicidal thoughts. Therefore, it is imperative to seek prompt medical attention as soon as you detect any symptoms.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) – This type of depression is also medically known as dysthymia. This condition involves a persistent depressed mood that lingers for about 1-2 years. The indicators of PDD are less acute yet significant. However, it can significantly affect your ability to function and dull your life. Both adults and adolescents can experience PDD. It’s crucial to always go for regular checkups to ensure good mental health.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – According to mental specialists, this type of depressive disorder happens during specific times of the year. It is mostly common during the fall and winter months when there is less sunlight, which provides the perfect environment for SAD to kick in. The key indicators for SAD include weight gain, social withdrawal, and increased appetite. Like any other type of depression, SADS can also significantly impact your life, and that is why it is important to seek professional help.
Conclusion
Depressive disorders are a real, prevalent issue, and should not be trivialised. People need to have comprehensive knowledge about it so that they can get the necessary help for themselves and their loved ones to improve their quality of life. There are also other depressive disorders like bipolar disorder, psychotic depression, and many more. If you suspect that you may be experiencing symptoms of depression or have a loved one who has depression, you can visit Neurociti Hospital for proper treatment and diagnosis. They are dedicated to providing the best mental healthcare that will not only enhance your mental health but also improve your quality of life.
