Do you feel a lot of weight on your heart too? Let's talk about depression.

It is very normal to feel sad, lonely, and frustrated at times in our lives. Sometimes we feel that way when we lose a loved one, when we have a problem at work, when something doesn't go as planned. It is normal. But if this unbearable sadness, hopelessness, and feeling of worthlessness persists for days or weeks, if it interferes with your daily life, it may be something more than simple sadness. That is when we should seek medical advice.

What exactly is depression?

Simply put, depression is a mental illness that affects our mood. Doctors call it `major depressive disorder` or `clinical depression`. It is not just a feeling of sadness. It affects the way we think, feel, and behave. If left untreated, this condition can last for months, even years. It can even lead to people taking their own lives. The good news is that there are effective treatments for it. But the sad thing is that about half of people with depression are never properly diagnosed or treated.

Do you also have these symptoms?

Not everyone with depression experiences the same symptoms. However, there are some common symptoms that can be seen. Let's take a look at what they are.

The severity of these symptoms, how often they occur, and how long they last can vary from person to person. For some people, these symptoms can also manifest as physical symptoms. This is because the brain chemicals involved in depression (specifically `Serotonin` and `Norepinephrine`) are linked to our mood as well as pain.

How does depression affect children and young people?

Depression in young children

Just because a young child is sad doesn't mean they have depression. But if the child's sadness persists day after day, and if the child's behavior changes interfere with their schoolwork, playing with friends, or spending time with family, it may be a sign of depression.

Depression in young children

It's normal to feel down and moody during adolescence. But if your child's sadness lasts more than two weeks and they show other signs of depression, it could be a problem. Look for signs of withdrawal from friends and family, poor grades in school, and alcohol or drug use . If you notice any of these signs, talk to your child and see your doctor . With the right treatment, your child can overcome this condition and grow up healthy.

What are the causes of depression?

No single specific cause of depression has yet been found, but doctors believe it is a combination of several factors.

• Brain structure: Research has found that there are physical changes in the brains of people with depression.
• Brain chemical changes: Chemicals in the brain called ``neurotransmitters`` help control our mood. This may be because these chemicals are not working properly in someone with depression.
• Hormones: Hormone levels in the body change due to factors such as pregnancy, postpartum, thyroid problems, and menopause. This can also contribute to depression.
• Genetic influence: If someone in your family has depression, you are at a higher risk of developing it too. This means there may be a genetic link.

How do you find this, Doctor?

Your doctor will follow these steps to determine if you have depression and what type it is:

• Physical examination: Your overall health will be checked to see if these symptoms are caused by another medical condition.
• Lab tests: You may need to have something like a blood test to check certain hormone levels.
• A mental health evaluation: The doctor will ask you questions about your thoughts, feelings, and behavior patterns. You may also be asked to fill out a questionnaire.
• Criteria: Doctors use internationally accepted criteria, such as the `DSM-5`, to make diagnoses.

What are the treatments for depression?

If you have symptoms of depression, talk to your doctor first. He or she can evaluate you and start treatment or refer you to a specialist, such as a psychiatrist. The type of treatment you receive will depend on the nature and severity of your symptoms.

• Medication: Antidepressants are very effective for many people. You may need to try several types to find the one that works best for you.
• Psychotherapy: Also called "talk therapy." Talking about your problems regularly with a psychiatrist or counselor can help manage your symptoms. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a popular method used for this.
• Hospitalization: Sometimes, if the depression is so severe that there is a risk of harming yourself, you may need to stay in a hospital for treatment.
• Other treatments: In severe cases where medication does not help, specialized treatments such as `Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)` and `Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)` are used.

Warning signs and emergency help

There is a risk of suicide with depression. Be very careful about these symptoms.

Risk characteristics:

• Constantly talking or thinking about death.
• Suddenly feeling sad and then suddenly showing strange calmness or happiness.
• Saying things like "I'd rather not be here" or "I want to get out of this."
• Constantly saying that they are useless and helpless.
• Doing risky work (e.g. driving fast).
• Behaving as if preparing final arrangements (distributing belongings, writing last wills).
• Going to meet or talk to friends.

When should you seek emergency help?

If you or someone you know is thinking about or attempting to harm themselves, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately or call an emergency number.

If you think so too:

• Call your doctor or psychiatrist immediately.
• Tell a family member or friend you trust about this.
• Talk to someone like your religious leader.

Depression, mental stress, mental health, symptoms, treatment, mental health, clinical depression