Depressive Disorder
Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Comprehensive Management
Keywords:
Depression, stress, depression causes, depression signs and symptoms, depression treatment, anti-depressant, SSRI, SNRI, ECT, electro-convulsive therapy, shock therapy, depression counselling, CBT, cognitive behaviour therapy, inter-personal therapy, family therapy, major depressive disorderAbstract
Depression is a serious mental illness. It is estimated that one in ten people in India are affected by this disorder. Women are more affected than men. It is normal for a person to experience worry and sadness occasionally. However, those suffering from clinical depression will be constantly worried and sad most of the time and in all situations. They will have reduced engagement in daily life and will lack interest. They will show less interest in many things they previously enjoyed (anhedonia). Furthermore, they will isolate themselves more from others. This can lead to problems in relationships and even make it difficult to function in daily life. This article discusses in detail the symptomatology of depression and the aetiology of depression. Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological management of depression are also discussed here.