Different types of depression:

 

Major depression disorder – characterised by a combination of symptoms that disrupt the individual’s ability to sleep, study, eat, work or enjoy activities they had previously valued. Daily symptoms make the sufferer unable to function 'normally'.

 

Chronic depression or Dysthymia – diagnosed as a long-term (two years) depressive state. It is less severe than major depression and does not usually disable an individual’s ability to function normally.

 

Atypical Depression – symptoms include fatigue, over-eating, oversleeping, sensitivity and mood swings that are aggravated after certain events. This is commonly found in bipolar patients.

 

Bipolar disorder or Manic Depression - a complex mood disorder that alternates between clinical depression and mania (extreme elation, impulsive or hyper-active behaviour).

 

Causes for Depression:

There is no known cause for depression, but it can be related to a number of reasons such as personal experience, genetics, environment and psychological factors. It can also be the result of an imbalance of neurotransmitters such as serotonin (which contributes to the functions of sleep, mood, appetite and pain) and norepinephrine (which affects concentration, emotion, sleeping patterns, dreams and the ability to learn). The brain is vulnerable to detrimental conditions as much as any other organ is.

 

Symptoms

• Constant feeling of sadness, irritability and/or anger

• Isolation

• A feeling of hopelessness or despair

• Low self-esteem

• Insomnia or oversleeping

• Fatigue

• Over-eating or under-eating

• Dependence on drugs or alcohol

• Suicidal thoughts

 

Coping with depression

• Confide in friends or family that you trust

• Take life one day at a time

• Try keeping yourself involved in social activities

• Eat healthier

• Exercise regularly

• Do activities that you enjoy

• Write your thoughts and feelings down - let the negativity out

• Socialise with positive people

• Avoid alcohol and drugs as escape methods

• Get a pet

• Join a support group

 

Treatment:

• Medication

• Anti-depressants prescribed by therapists.

• Psychotherapy

• Cognitive treatment: therapy that attempts to change an individual’s negative thoughts and perceptions of themselves and their environment.

• Interpersonal therapy: teaches successful interaction with others. This type of therapy focuses on social skills.

 

Helping a friend who may be depressed

The first step is recognising the signs and accepting that depression is an illness. Educate yourself, because the more you know the more you will be able to help. If a friend of yours has stopped communicating or socialising, make yourself a constant presence in their life. This will reassure them that they have someone whom they may confide in. Do not let your friend isolate him/herself from reality as they need social connection.

 

It can be hard to be around a depressed loved one. Distancing yourself from a negative situation is a natural reaction but realise your limitations: you can’t force someone into treatment.

 

The biggest misconception is that you shouldn’t ask a sufferer if they are having suicidal thoughts. Don’t be afraid of asking. If he/she admits to it, do not take it lightly. Persuade them to seek professional advice immediately.  

If you are suffering from depression, counsellors are available on these hotlines:

Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393 (24/7)

South Africa Depression and Anxiety Group - Mental Health Line: 011 262 6396