Depression is a mood disorder that involves a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It is different from the mood fluctuations that people regularly experience as a part of life. One of the effective ways to combat is depression therapy.
Major life events, such as bereavement or the loss of a job, can lead to depression. However, doctors only consider feelings of grief to be part of depression if they persist.
Depression is an ongoing problem, not a passing one. It consists of episodes during which the symptoms last for at least 2 weeks. Depression can last for several weeks, months, or years.
In females
Depression is nearly twice as common among women as men, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Some symptoms of depression that tend to appear more often in females include:
· irritability
· anxiety
· mood swings
· fatigue
· ruminating (dwelling on negative thoughts)
Also, some types of depression are unique to females, such as:
· postpartum depression
· premenstrual dysphoric disorder
In males
Around 9% of men in the United States have feelings of depression or anxiety, according to the American Psychological Association.
Males with depression are more likely than females to drink alcohol in excess, display anger, and engage in risk-taking as a result of the disorder.
Other symptoms of depression in males may include:
· avoiding families and social situations
· working without a break
· having difficulty keeping up with work and family responsibilities
· displaying abusive or controlling behavior in relationships
In college students
Time at college can be stressful, and a person may be dealing with other lifestyles, cultures, and experiences for the first time.
Some students have difficulty coping with these changes, and they may develop depression, anxiety, or both as a result.
Symptoms of depression in college students may include:
· difficulty concentrating on schoolwork
· insomnia
· sleeping too much
· a decrease or increase in appetite
· avoiding social situations and activities that they used to enjoy
In teens
Physical changes, peer pressure, and other factors can contribute to depression in teenagers.
They may experience some of the following symptoms:
· withdrawing from friends and family
· difficulty concentrating on schoolwork
· feeling guilty, helpless, or worthless
· restlessness, such as an inability to sit still
In children
The CDC estimates that, in the U.S., 3.2% of children and teens aged 3–17 have a diagnosis of depression. Depression Therapy is one way that can help manage this situation.
In children, symptoms can make schoolwork and social activities challenging. They may experience symptoms such as:
· crying
· low energy
· clinginess
· defiant behavior
· vocal outbursts
· Younger children may have difficulty expressing how they feel in words. This can make it harder for them to explain their feelings of sadness.
Risk Factors for Depression
Depression can affect anyone—even a person who appears to live in relatively ideal circumstances.
Several factors can play a role in depression:
· Biochemistry: Differences in certain chemicals in the brain may contribute to symptoms of depression.
· Genetics: Depression can run in families. For example, if one identical twin has depression, the other has a 70 percent chance of having the illness sometime in life.
· Personality: People with low self-esteem, who are easily overwhelmed by stress, or who are generally pessimistic appear to be more likely to experience depression.
· Environmental factors: Continuous exposure to violence, neglect, abuse or poverty may make some people more vulnerable to depression.
To Learn More Get Professional Advice
Depression Therapy is available for anyone who feels they need help to cope. If you or a loved one is going through depression, contact a reputable clinic like The Lotus Wellness Center and let them build a suitable therapy schedule for you.
