Depression: Symptoms and Causes

Overview

What is Depression?

• Depression is a mood disorder causing persistent sadness and loss of interest.
• Commonly misunderstood as a weakness; it's a treatable serious condition.
• Affects all demographics: age, race, gender, income, and education.
• One in six people experience a major depressive episode in their lifetime.
• Symptoms include emotional, physical, and behavioral changes.
  • Emotional: sadness, irritability, apathy.
  • Physical: fatigue, disrupted sleep, lack of motivation.
  • Behavioral: withdrawal from activities and responsibilities.

Causes of Depression

• No single cause; a combination of biological, social, and psychological factors.
  • Biological: genetics, health conditions, hormonal changes, brain chemistry.
  • Social: stressful events, limited resources, lack of social support.
  • Psychological: negative thought patterns, poor coping behaviors.
• Treatment options include lifestyle changes, medications, and therapy.

Symptoms

General Symptoms

• Sadness, hopelessness, irritability, loss of interest in activities.
• Sleep disturbances, fatigue, changes in appetite, anxiety.
• Impaired thinking and concentration, feelings of worthlessness.
• Suicidal thoughts and unexplained physical issues.

Symptoms in Children and Teens

• Similar to adults but may include clinginess, aches, or reluctance to attend school.
• In teens: anger, poor school performance, substance use, social withdrawal.

Symptoms in Older Adults

• May include memory issues, physical pains, fatigue, social withdrawal.
• Depression often undiagnosed in older adults; symptoms can be subtle.

When to Seek Help

• Important to seek professional help if experiencing symptoms.
• Emergency help is vital if suicidal thoughts occur.
  • Call emergency services or a suicide hotline.

Additional Information

• Mayo Clinic resources offer further insights into depression care.

Causes

• Biological differences, brain chemistry, hormonal changes, genetic factors.

Risk Factors

• Includes personality traits, traumatic events, family history, and other mental health disorders.
• Abuse of substances and certain medications can increase risk.

Complications

• Untreated depression can worsen, leading to obesity, illnesses, substance misuse, and social issues.
• Can result in suicidal thoughts or actions.

Prevention

• Manage stress and build resilience.
• Early treatment is crucial to prevent worsening.
• Long-term treatment can help prevent relapse.