What is Depression?

Depression is often mistaken for simply feeling sad. While sadness is a symptom, depression is a more complex condition that affects emotions, thoughts, and behaviours.

Symptoms of Depression

Depression can vary in severity, from mild to severe, and may include:

• Persistent sadness or a depressed mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleeping too much or experiencing insomnia
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Restlessness or increased purposeless activity (e.g., pacing, hand-wringing)
• Slowed movements or speech
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or thinking clearly
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

It is important to note that certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, and vitamin deficiencies can mimic symptoms of depression.

Grief vs. Depression People often use the term "depressed" when they are experiencing grief or deep sadness. While grief and depression share similarities, they have key differences.

Shared Symptoms of Grief and Depression:

• Sadness
• Insomnia
• Poor appetite
• Weight loss

Key Differences:

Grief: Emotional pain occurs in waves, often interspersed with positive memories; self-esteem remains intact; grief can sometimes trigger depression.

Depression: Mood and interest remain consistently low for extended periods; feelings of worthlessness and self-loathing are common.

Depression can be particularly challenging to diagnose because it distorts an individual's perception of themselves and their surroundings. Many people suffering from depression do not reach out for help due to feelings of guilt or being a burden to others. They may also hide their struggles from loved ones to avoid causing concern.

What Causes Depression? Depression arises from a combination of factors, including:

• Life events: Prolonged stress, abuse, isolation, loneliness, or significant loss.
• Personal factors: Family history of depression, personality traits, underlying medical conditions, and substance use.
• Biological components: While depression is often linked to chemical imbalances in the brain, it is a complex condition influenced by genetics, brain function, and environmental factors.

Treating Depression Depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions, with an estimated 80–90% of people responding positively to treatment. Understanding the risk factors—biochemistry, genetics, personality, and environment—allows for the development of personalized treatment plans.

Common Treatment Approaches:

Medication: Antidepressants help regulate brain chemistry, but finding the right medication and dosage can take time as each case is unique.

Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy): Therapy has been shown to be effective, especially for mild to moderate depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help individuals change negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies.

Seeking help for depression is crucial, as treatment can significantly improve a person's quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, reaching out to a medical professional is the first step toward recovery.

Resources

• More articles and books from Black Dog Institute https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/depression/
• Online and phone support: Lifeline  on 13 11 44