Depression is considered a mood disorder that affects 3 million people each year in the U.S. Depression is often characterized by a constant feeling of sadness or a lack of hope, which can vary in both physical and emotional symptoms. Although the condition is considered to be lifelong in many cases, there are various forms of treatment that are available through a medical professional.
There are a number of different emotional symptoms that are associated with depression, which includes depression irritability, an inability to sleep, changes in appetite, decreased energy levels, and thoughts of suicide. Many people who suffer from depression experience an empty mood while also feeling sad or anxious. It can be easy to feel pessimistic with both your personal and professional life while also experiencing feelings of guilt, hopelessness theory of depression, and worthlessness. Some people may feel as if they don’t have a reason to live and can feel a lack of motivation.
Many people experience decreased appetite and can have weight changes while going through depression due to changes in their diet. They may also move at a slower pace and have less energy when performing daily activities. Depression sleep too much is also common and can make it difficult to maintain a routine schedule.
Types of Depression
Although depression is a common disorder among children and adults, there are different types of the disorder that are known to develop. Major depression affects everyday life, which includes sleep, eating habits, studying, and work performance. Postpartum depression is common among women who have recently given birth and are adjusting to both physical and hormonal changes. Bipolar disorder is also considered to be depression due to extreme low moods and extreme high moods that occur throughout the day.
Several different factors can contribute to depression, which includes genetics, brain chemistry, traumatic childhood experiences, being in a challenging relationship, and suffering from the loss of close family member or friend. Although depression is prone to occur at any age, many people being to experience it in their teenage years or once they enter their 20s and 30s. This can also begin with a high level of anxiety as a child before depression develops.
The mood disorder is even known to occur when people suffer from diabetes, heart disease, cancer and Parkinson’s disease when certain medications are prescribed. The depression is often a side effect of the medication and should be adjusted by a medical professional.
Those who are diagnosed with depression may receive cognitive behavioral therapy with their treatment plan to determine how thought patterns trigger the mood disorder. Interpersonal therapy is also available, which allows the patient to focus on how their relationships trigger their moods.
Some people may benefit from taking medications with antidepressants that are commonly prescribed. There are a variety of different antidepressants available, which includes serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and other serotonergic antidepressants. Patients typically take the medication for a period of time and may request changes in dosage based on how they feel.