WHAT IS DEPRESSION?
Depression is a serious illness caused by changes in brain chemistry. Research tells us that other factors contribute to the onset of depression, including genetics, changes in hormone levels, certain medical conditions, stress, grief or difficult life circumstances. Any of these factors alone or in combination can precipitate changes in brain chemistry that lead to depression’s many symptoms.
Depression is a serious condition. It’s also, unfortunately, a common one. The World Health Organization characterizes depression as one of the most disabling disorders in the world, affecting roughly one in five women and one in ten men at some point in their lifetime.
The problems caused by depression are made worse by the fact that most people suffering from the disease are never diagnosed, let alone treated. The good news is that when depression is promptly identified and treated, its symptoms are manageable and there are many effective strategies for living with the disease. Depression and bipolar disorder are both treated most effectively in their earliest stages when symptoms are less severe.
WHAT CAUSES DEPRESSION?
Although scientists agree that depression is a brain disorder, the debate continues about exact causes. Many factors may contribute to the onset of depression, including genetic characteristics, changes in hormone levels, certain medical illnesses, stress, grief, or substance abuse. Any of these factors alone or in combination can bring about the specific changes in brain chemistry that lead to the many symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and related conditions.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION?
Depression commonly affects your thoughts, your emotions, your behaviours and your overall physical health. Here are some of the most common symptoms that indicate depression:
- Emotional Changes:
- Sadness
- Hopelessness
- Guilt
- Moodiness
- Angry outbursts
- Loss of interest in friends, family and favourite activities, including sex
- Psychological Changes:
- Trouble concentrating
- Trouble making decisions
- Trouble remembering
- Thoughts of harming yourself
- Delusions and/or hallucinations can also occur in cases of severe depression
- Behavioural Changes:
- Withdrawing from people
- Substance abuse
- Missing work, school or other commitments
- Attempts to harm yourself
- Physical Changes:
- Tiredness or lack of energy
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Changes in appetite
- Weight loss
- Weight gain
- Changes in sleep – sleeping too little or too much
- Sexual problems
HOW IS DEPRESSION TREATED?
There are several strategies for treating depression. Depending upon each individual’s characteristics and symptoms, doctors may employ one or more types of psychotherapy that rely upon a sequence of interpersonal treatment sessions with a trained professional. In addition, clinicians may suggest that a patient try one of a number of different medications. Lifestyle changes, including improvements in sleeping and eating habits, physical activity and stress reduction have also proven very helpful in managing symptoms.
WHY KIMS?
Being the best neuro-specialist hospital in Hyderabad, KIMS offers personalized, compassionate care from a professional and highly trained staff and is uniquely equipped to address the specific needs of individuals experiencing the various types of depression.
Our Depression Treatment Specialist in Hyderabad offers inpatient and outpatient care, including a unique dual diagnosis treatment. Through a comprehensive program involving a blend of medical care and therapy, KIMS helps individuals to regain their confidence and return to their lives.