Common conditions that may lead to depression

Emobileclinic TrendIng Topic

 
One of the common mood disorders that affect a significant population in the world is depression. Depression is a serious medical condition (illness) caused by changes in the brain chemistry. It affects not only the young but also the adult. A chronic depressive condition in the medical parlance is referred to as clinical depression which is more than just feeling down.

It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness as well as loss of belonging which may require medication to manage. It is not unexpected in life to experience some moment that may bring one down on. Responding to these conditions emotionally is normal and healthy. However, continuous miserable feeling with no sense of hope is abnormal. This symptom can indicate depression, which is a serious medical condition.

Types of depression
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the two prominent types of depression are major depressive disorder (MDD) and persistent depressive disorder (PDD).
Major depressive disorder (MDD): it is a condition of constant state of sadness, emptiness, and despair for at least two weeks. It is a debilitating disease that affects one’s health seriously. Common symptoms of this condition are loss of interest in all that previously gives one pleasure, inability to enjoy sound and long sleep, anxiety and loss of appetite as well as restlessness.
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD): it is a condition characterized by a depressed mood most of the time for at least two years. The common symptoms are insomnia, loss of appetite, low self-esteem, over eating, excessive sleep, lack of energy and loss of concentration.
Other types of Depression
Unspecified depressive disorder: occurs with multiple characteristics of other forms of depression.
Recurrent brief depression: it is characterized with symptoms that last from two to 13 days. It occurs at least once per month for twelve months. However, it is a milder form of depression that is treatable with therapy.
Adjustment disorder with depressive features: this condition is referred to as adjustment disorder with depressive features. Usually, this condition is temporary.

Common conditions that may lead to depression
While Major Depressive Disorder is considered the most serious form of depression in terms of symptom severity and how long it can last, it must be emphasized that depression can arise as a result of a disruptive mood which is common in children and is characterized by frequent and severe outbursts of anger, premenstrual dysphoric disorder which is a more severe type of premenstrual syndrome, substance or medication-induced depressive disorder which is common in people who engage in illegal drug or the side effects of a prescribed drug, certain chronic illnesses, such as Parkinson’s disease to name but a few.

Treatment
Depressive condition goes beyond mere feeling of downcast; it is capable of disrupting one’s daily activities and relationships. It may last longer than envisaged and worsen one’s health and the general well being. It can affect one’s work leading to loss of job or source of revenue. Interestingly, it is a treatable condition. Available treatments option counseling, engaging in therapy, change in life styles, avoiding activities that lead to stress, get socially involve and take appropriate medication.