The Definition of Mental Depression

Depression can be more than just a mood. The tendency in some people to experience it frequently, or for long periods of time, may be the sign of a more serious illness. Depression can be the result of several factors, both physical and mental. We may feel depressed if someone dies or we may be depressed due to chemical imbalances in the brain. Although both are beyond our control, there are ways to reduce depression; forms of treatment are available.

Causes

• Some factors that contribute to depression include loneliness and lack of social support, stressful life experiences, financial difficulty, isolation, failed relationships and health problems. A family history of depression can also be a factor. Depression can also be the result of drug abuse or child abuse.

Symptoms

• Symptoms can be mild or severe, but depression often displays itself through physical, as well as mental, symptoms. Sadness, irritability, the inability to enjoy life and difficulty in thinking are just a few of the mental signs of depression. Physical symptoms may include insomnia, exhaustion and the lack of energy, and some aches and pains with no apparent physical cause.

Neurochemicals

• There is speculation on how neurotransmitters and neurochemicals, biochemicals, or just the chemicals of the brain affect mood. Monoamines, serotonin and norepinephrine are some of the chemicals found in the brain, and there is a link between depressed people and lower chemicals levels. But that may be a symptom of depression and not the cause. Release of these chemicals is often accompanied by experiencing pleasure. Reduced levels of pleasure-associated chemicals may be caused by depression, and not the reason for it.

Types

• Not all depressions are the same. Major or clinical depression ranges from constant and moderate symptoms to severe and sudden episodes, which usually reoccur and make life unbearable and unenjoyable. Atypical depression is a subtype of major depression that can be easier to manage through therapies. Dysthymia's symptoms are milder but can easily be overlooked. Those with Dysthymia can be depressed for years and not realize it. Seasonal affected disorder is a type of depression that occurs in poor weather and lack of sunlight. Bipolar Disorder, also known as manic depression, features mood swings from hyperactivity, insomnia and impulsive actions to the more usual symptoms of major depression.

Prevention/Solution

• Because depression can be the result of social, economic, physical, mental and many other factors, a prevention and solution policy has to be very broad. It can't be cured with a pill and it can't be prevented like an infection. Asking for help and gaining support are two of the best ways to overcome depression. Isolation makes it worse. Healthy lifestyle choices, like exercise, eating regularly and healthy sleep habits, can help you manage stress. Relaxation techniques can help too. But perhaps the most important caution is to avoid thinking negatively. Placing more importance on personal worth and boosting self-esteem and confidence can have a major impact on depression.