When you talk about depression, or when you go to see a doctor, some words sound unfamiliar to us. Sometimes these words are a little complicated, and it can even be a little scary. You wonder, "What is this about?" So, today we're going to talk about the simple meaning of these words that are often used in connection with depression. This is like a little dictionary, but very simple, in language that you and I can understand.
First, let's see, what are depression and the main conditions associated with it?
There is more than one type of depression. There are different types and levels of it. Let's look at a few of them.
- Depression: Simply put, this is not just a feeling of sadness or worry. It is a condition that affects our body, mood, and thoughts. The way we eat, the way we sleep, the way we think about ourselves, and the way we look at things can all change.
- Major Depression: This is what we usually call 'clinical depression'. This condition must last for at least two weeks in a row. Also, it must be to a level that interferes with your daily life. Symptoms such as excessive fatigue, lack of energy, and a feeling of hopelessness about anything are common.
- Dysthymia / Persistent Depressive Disorder: Imagine, some people have a constant feeling of sadness and lack of interest in anything for years. It is not as severe as major depression, but it is long-lasting. This makes it impossible to be happy or do work properly. Although this used to be called `(Dysthymia)`, now modern medicine calls this condition `(Persistent Depressive Disorder)` when combined with major depression that lasts for more than two years.
- Bipolar Disorder: Previously known as 'Manic Depression' , this is a condition where the mood swings back and forth between two extremes. That is, at one time the person is extremely depressed, and at another time they are extremely excited and enthusiastic. This state of excitement is called mania .
- Postpartum Depression: This is a depressive condition that occurs in new mothers after giving birth. After having a baby, many mothers experience a few days of sadness and mood swings known as the "baby blues." However, postpartum depression is a more serious condition. It definitely requires treatment and the new mother needs good mental strength and support.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Some people experience depression at certain times of the year, especially during the rainy season and winter. This condition disappears when the sun returns and the summer season arrives. The main reason for this is the decrease in sunlight.
A few more words related to mood
There are other feelings and conditions that come with depression.
Anxiety Disorder: This is also a chronic condition. The anxiety is so severe that it interferes with daily life. Many people with depression may also have this condition called anxiety.
- Mania and Hypomania: This is part of Bipolar Disorder. Mania is a period of feeling high energy, high happiness, or high anger. During this period, you may not be able to sleep and may act impulsively. This can be so severe that it can affect the person's life. You may also experience hallucinations. Hypomania is a milder, less severe form of mania.
- Panic Attack: This is a sudden, intense feeling of fear or anxiety for no apparent reason, accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, sweating, and difficulty breathing.
How do these things happen? The medical side
Depression is not a weakness of the mind. It has biological causes.
- Neurotransmitters: Simply put, these are the chemical messengers in our brain. They are used to communicate messages between brain cells. Serotonin and norepinephrine are the main types of neurotransmitters. Many medications for depression work by altering the levels or activity of these chemicals.
- Hypothyroidism: This is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. This can cause symptoms such as depression, fatigue, and weight gain. Therefore, sometimes your doctor may order a blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels.
Who can I get help from?
There are qualified professionals to seek help in this situation. There is a slight difference between the two.
- Psychiatrist: This is a doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in mental illness. Because he or she is a doctor, he or she can prescribe medications, such as antidepressants. Some psychiatrists also provide psychotherapy.
- Psychologist: This is a professional who is not a doctor (MD), but has received specialized training (PhD or PsyD) in treating mental and emotional disorders. They mainly use talk therapy (Psychotherapy) . They are also trained to administer IQ tests and personality tests.
What are the treatments?
Fortunately, depression is a condition that can be treated and cured.
Talk therapy
- Psychotherapy: Also called "talking therapy," this involves talking to a trained therapist to find solutions to your mental or emotional problems. This is a very effective treatment.
Medicines (drugs)
There are different types of medications to treat depression. These are prescribed only by a doctor after a thorough examination of your condition.
| Drug type | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Antidepressant | These are the main types of medication used to treat depression. They work by balancing the chemical makeup of the brain. |
| SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) | This is a commonly used type of antidepressant. Examples: fluoxetine, sertraline, escitalopram . These increase serotonin levels in the brain. |
| MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) | These are a somewhat older type of medication, usually given for severe depression. You need to be especially careful about what you eat and drink when taking these medications. |
| Mood Stabilizers | These are commonly used for bipolar disorder . They help control mood swings. Examples: lithium, valproate. |
Other specific treatments
- Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): This name may sound scary to some, but it is now a very advanced, safe, and effective treatment that is administered under anesthesia (after you are completely asleep). It is used for people with severe depression who are not responding to medication, or when quick results are needed.
- Light Therapy / Phototherapy: This is used specifically for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It involves daily exposure to a special lamp that is much brighter than the lights at home, and is similar to sunlight.
Take-Home Message
- Depression is not a weakness, it is a real illness that can be treated.
- If you or someone you know has these symptoms, don't be afraid to talk about it.
- A psychiatrist can prescribe medication, while a psychologist mainly provides talk therapy. Both are professionals who can help you.
- There are many treatment options. Medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both can be effective.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this, be sure to talk to your doctor . You can get the best advice and help there.
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