Depression is one of the most common mental disorders and the largest single reason for losing one’s psychological working ability and functional capacity. It may cause considerable suffering and impairment of functional capacity over several areas of one’s life.
For some, depression may be a passing period of low mood and last from a couple of days to several months. In this situation, the depression is sensed as an emotional state or a mood and does not necessarily require professional help. Others may suffer from depression as a mental disorder that includes a sense of hopelessness. Depression affects both the afflicted person and their loved ones.
Depression manifests itself in both mental and physical symptoms. Mood-related symptoms include long-term melancholy, loss of interest and pleasure, reduced confidence, self-accusations, difficulty making decisions and impaired ability to concentrate and take initiative. However, anyone can experience these symptoms as part of normal mood fluctuations. Depression is also often associated with self-destructive thoughts. The physical symptoms of depression include low energy levels related to exhaustion, stiffness, sleep problems, loss of appetite and weight fluctuations. Depression can be diagnosed if the symptoms continue for more than two weeks. It is a common disorder but only a minority seek professional help.
The differences between depression and sadness, for example, include the fact that there is rarely a single, clear reason for depression. Depression may have diverse causes related to the person’s childhood or other phases of life, their genetics or a difficult and traumatising event or situation in life, among other things. Depression can also occur in connection with other disorders or due to medication or drug use.
There are effective treatments for depression, including psychotherapy and medication. It is important to seek medical attention for further examination. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the depression and the patient’s situation in life.
