A depression goes far beyond sadness: it's a mood disorder with a real impact on your body, your mind and your personal and professional life. In this article, we'll
- Defining depression
- Present the different types and degrees
- Details visible and less obvious symptoms
- Explore multiple causes
- Show treatment options and recovery path
- Present practical examples and answer frequently asked questions
What is depression?
Depression is a mental illness characterised by a persistent state of sadness or emptiness, It's not a weakness or something “cured by willpower”. It's a loss of interest in normally pleasurable activities and changes in sleep, appetite, energy and cognitive functioning. It's not a weakness or something that can be "cured with willpower".
Types of depression
Here are the most common types:
- Major depression (severe depressive episode): intense symptoms that seriously interfere with everyday life
- Dysthymia (persistent depressive disorder): less intense but lasting symptoms (for months or years)
- Seasonal depression: appears recurrently at specific times, for example during the winter
- Postpartum depression: occurs after the birth of a child, and can affect mothers (and in rarer cases fathers)
- Atypical depression: includes variations in typical symptoms, for example with increased appetite or emotional sensitivity
Degrees of severity
- Lightweight: interferes moderately with daily tasks, but there is partial functionality
- Moderate: clearer limitations in relationships, work or study
- Serious: intense impact, possible risk to life (suicidal ideation)
Knowing what degree it is helps you decide what intervention is needed.
Symptoms of depression
Classic“ and visible symptoms
- Persistent sadness, feeling of emptiness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in the usual activities
- Fatigue, a feeling of constant tiredness
- Difficulty concentrating, indecision
- Changes in sleep (insomnia or sleeping too much)
- Changes in appetite (overeating or loss of appetite)
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or self-loathing
- Slow movements or motor agitation
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Less obvious or secondary symptoms
- Unexplained physical symptoms, such as muscle pain, headaches, digestive disorders, etc.
- Decreased libido or sexual problems
- Social isolation, avoid socialising
- Mild cognitive problems, such as memory lapses, mental slowness
- Neglect of personal care (hygiene, food)
If many of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it's an indication of depression that deserves evaluation.
Causes of depression
Depression results from a complex interaction between various factors - there is no single cause.
Biological factors
- Neurotransmitter imbalances (serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline)
- Genetic predisposition (family history of depression)
- Hormonal changes (e.g. thyroid, menopause, postpartum)
- Chronic diseases, persistent pain or debilitating medical conditions
Psychological factors
- Past traumas, abuse or significant losses
- Persistent negative thinking, severe self-criticism
- Low emotional resilience
- Inadequate coping strategies
Social / environmental factors
- Prolonged stress in work, studies or personal life
- Losses, bereavements or separations
- Economic instability or social insecurity
- Social isolation or lack of family support
- Dysfunctional family or professional environments
There isn't always a “clear cause” - depression can arise even in apparently stable circumstances.
Treatment and the road to recovery
Depression is treatable. The course can vary according to the degree, history and characteristics of each person. It is based on a combination of psychotherapy +/- medication
Psychotherapy
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): focus on restructuring negative thoughts, emotional regulation, strategy training
- Interpersonal therapy: relates symptoms to conflicts in relationships
- Psychodynamic or humanistic psychotherapy: to work on emotional roots
Antidepressant medication
- It should be prescribed and monitored by a psychiatrist
- Therapeutic effects can appear between 2 to 4 weeks
- Doses need to be adjusted, side effects monitored and periodically evaluated
Lifestyle and complementary interventions
- Regular physical exercise - natural anti-depressant
- Quality sleep and sleep hygiene
- Balanced nutrition, avoid excessive caffeine
- Reduction or elimination of alcohol and psychoactive substances
- Socialising, emotional support and maintaining routines
- Relaxation techniques, mindfulness, guided breathing
When to seek help
Seek immediate support if:
- The symptoms prevent normal operation
- Feelings of deep hopelessness
- There are persistent thoughts of suicide
- There is social isolation
- Symptoms last more than two weeks without improvement
- Other self-help strategies are already failing
Talking to a mental health professional is not a sign of weakness. It's a fundamental step.
How to support someone with depression?
Listen without judgement, offer companionship, encourage the search for professional help, accompany them to sessions if appropriate.
Conclusion
Depression is a serious condition, but with proper treatment many people resume their lives with greater clarity, energy and functionality.
If you feel you can no longer cope on your own, seeking professional support may be the most concrete step. At Médico na Net, we have professionals ready to listen, guide and accompany you, without pressure.
