How to make your depression (MDD) treatment successful? Let's talk about this

Do you sometimes feel so sad, lonely, and bored with life that you can't bear it? Do you ever feel like giving up on everything, like you're a burden to everyone? You're not alone in these feelings. This is something that many people experience. But the most important thing is that you can overcome this situation. That's what we're talking about today. To be precise, living with a severe form of depression, a condition that doctors call ``Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)``, is about how to make the most of the treatment you receive and win your life again.

Is depression just sadness? Or is it more than that?

First, let's get this straight. Depression is not just a feeling of sadness. It's much deeper than that. Simply put, depression is a medical condition that results from changes in the chemical processes in our brain . Just like diabetes or high blood pressure, it can't be simply "fixed" by simply "fixing" it.

Think about it, there are chemical messengers in our brain called ``Neurotransmitters`` that control feelings like happiness and calmness. What happens in depression is that the balance of these chemicals is disrupted. This is why symptoms such as unbearable sadness, loss of interest in anything, insomnia or excessive sleeping, loss of appetite or overeating, feelings of guilt, and low self-esteem appear.

The 4 essential pillars for successful treatment

In the journey to recovery from depression, a combination of several treatment methods is often the most successful. Let's call these the "pillars of treatment." If you keep these four pillars strong, you will have a much easier time winning this battle.

Now let's talk about each of these towers in a little more detail.

1. Medicine: Help for your brain

Some people have unnecessary fears about antidepressants. Questions like "Will I get addicted to this?" and "Will I have to take it every day?" come to mind.

The truth is this: Antidepressants work by restoring the chemical imbalances in the brain that we talked about earlier, just like diabetes medications work to control insulin levels.

• One medicine doesn't work for everyone: A medicine that works very well for one person, such as Fluoxetine, may not work as well for another. Therefore, it's important to talk to your doctor to find the medicine and dosage that best suits your body and condition .
• Don't expect immediate results: This medication can take 2-4 weeks or more to work, so you need to be patient and continue using it.
• Never stop taking your medication on your own: Even if you feel a little better, do not stop taking your medication without your doctor's advice. Doing so may cause your symptoms to worsen.

2. Counseling: A place to release the burden of the mind

Although medication can correct brain chemistry, therapy/counselling is essential to changing the chaotic thought patterns in our minds and the way we look at problems.

Imagine a place where you can talk about anything that's on your mind, in confidence, without any judgment. Counseling is like that. When you talk to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or qualified counselor, you can:

• Identify the underlying issues that are causing your depression.
• Learn to recognize negative thought patterns and change them into positive ones.
• Learn how to solve problems.

3. Coping Skills: Tools used in an emergency

Life is not always smooth sailing. When living with depression, there are times when you feel stressed, angry, and sad. You need to have some "tools" that you can use at those times. These are what we call `(Coping Skills)`.

• Mindfulness: The practice of being in the present moment. Even a simple breathing exercise that focuses on your breath can make a big difference.
• Meditation: Set aside 10-15 minutes a day to calm your mind.
• Writing a diary: Putting your feelings down on paper can be a great relief.
• A hobby: Do something you enjoy. It can be something simple like drawing, planting a tree, or listening to music.
• Light exercise: Something like going for a walk or doing yoga stimulates your body's production of happy hormones.

4. Support system: The feeling that you are not alone

Your family and trusted friends are your greatest source of strength on this journey. Talk openly with them about your feelings and the challenges you face.

• Let them help you: It may be hard for you to ask for help, but remember, those who love you are willing to help you.
• Educate them about your situation: Help them understand what depression is and how you feel. This will make it easier for them to support you.

What to do in an emergency?

Sometimes emotions can get overwhelming. You may have thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life. This is a medical emergency. You should not be alone during this time.

• Talk to someone immediately: Call a trusted family member or friend and tell them how you feel.
• Go to a hospital immediately: Go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) . The doctors and staff there are trained to help you.
• If you overdose: Although this is not recommended, if this happens, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital (telephone number 0112 686 143). They will advise you on what to do.