Depression: What is it ? How to Come out of it ?

If you or your loved ones are suffering from low mood and if your are looking for some help , you are at the right place. In this article we will see what is depression, types of depression and best methods to come out of it .let’s dive deep..

Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. According to latest studies 1 in 20 Indians suffer from depression. WHO estimates that  57 million people in India and 280 million World wide suffer with depression. Yet, most people suffer due to lack of awareness and stigma surrounding psychological illnesses. At Asha Hospital, we believe that understanding depression is the first step toward recovery.

What is Depression?

Depression, or major depressive disorder, is a serious and common mental health condition. It’s more than just feeling sad or having a bad day. It’s a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. This can affect how you feel, think, and behave, and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.

To be diagnosed with depression, a person must have symptoms for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. One of the symptoms must be a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in most activities.

Common Symptoms of Depression

Symptoms of depression can vary widely from person to person, but often include a combination of emotional, physical, and cognitive issues.

Emotional Symptoms

• Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness.
• Irritability, frustration, or angry outbursts, even over small matters.
• Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities, including hobbies, sex, or sports.
• Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-blame.

Physical Symptoms

• Fatigue and a lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort.
• Changes in sleep patterns (less sleep (insomnia) or sleeping too much).
• Significant changes in appetite or weight (either loss or gain).
• Unexplained physical aches, pains, headaches, or digestive problems.

Cognitive Symptoms

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions.
• Slowed thinking, speaking, or body movements.
• Thoughts of death, self-harm, or suicide.

What Causes Depression?

The exact cause of depression is not fully known, but it’s believed to be a complex interaction of various factors:

This is one of the most common questions we hear at Asha Hospital. The truth is that there is no single cause of depression. Instead, it usually develops from a combination of biological, genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.

1. Biological Factors

Brain Chemistry/Imbalance in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters): Low levels or poor functioning of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine can affect mood, energy, and motivation.
Example: A person may feel persistently low, lose interest in hobbies, or feel fatigued even without external stress.

Hormonal changes: Shifts in hormones due to thyroid problems, pregnancy, postpartum period, or premenstrual changes can trigger depression.
Example: Women may feel unusually sad, irritable, or anxious after childbirth (postpartum depression).

2. Genetic Predisposition

Family history can increase the risk of developing depression. While genetics alone do not determine who will get depressed, they can make someone more vulnerable.
Example: If a parent or sibling has experienced depression, an individual may have a higher chance of developing it, especially during stressful times.

3. Psychological Factors

Personality traits: People with low self-esteem, perfectionism, or dependent and self-critical personalities may be more prone to depression.
History of trauma or abuse: Past experiences such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse can increase vulnerability.

Example: A person who experienced childhood neglect may develop depressive symptoms later in life, especially during stressful events.

4. Environmental Factors

Stressful life events: Financial losses, relationship breakdowns, job loss, or bereavement can trigger depressive episodes.
Substance use: Alcohol and drug use can worsen mood, reduce coping abilities, and create a cycle of dependence and depression.

Chronic physical illness: Long-term illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, cancer, or chronic pain can significantly contribute to depression.
Example: A person with uncontrolled diabetes may feel overwhelmed, leading to persistent sadness and hopelessness.

Types of Depression

Depression can affect anyone at any age at anytime . Types include

Depression can be classified into different types based on symptoms, severity, and when they occur. Some common types include:

• Major Depressive Disorder: This is the most common form of depression, characterized by severe symptoms that interfere with daily life.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A less severe but more chronic form of depression, with symptoms that last for at least two years.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression that has a seasonal pattern, typically occurring in the fall and winter months due to reduced sunlight.
• Postpartum Depression (Perinatal Depression): Depression that occurs during pregnancy or in the weeks and months after childbirth.
• Psychotic Depression: A severe form of depression accompanied by symptoms of psychosis, such as delusions or hallucinations.
• Bipolar Disorder: While not a type of depression itself, it involves alternating episodes of depression and mania (periods of unusually high mood or energy).
• Geriatric Depression: Depression that occurs in (elderly) older adults, often associated with aging, health problems, or social isolation, and may affect memory and daily functioning.

Common Symptoms of Depression

Depression can affect how you think, feel, and function in everyday life. Recognizing the signs early is important.

Core symptoms include:

• Persistent low mood or sadness: feeling dull, empty, or unhappy most of the day, almost every day.
• Loss of interest or pleasure: not enjoying activities you once loved, such as hobbies, socializing, or even eating your favourite food.
• Fatigue or loss of energy: constant tiredness where even small tasks, like bathing or cooking, feel exhausting.

Additional symptoms may include:

• Reduced concentration and attention: difficulty focusing on work, studies, or even following a conversation.
• Sleep disturbances: trouble falling asleep, waking up too early, or oversleeping but still feeling tired.
• Changes in appetite and weight: loss of appetite leading to weight loss, or overeating leading to weight gain.
• Irritability or restlessness: getting frustrated easily, feeling on edge, or unable to relax.
• Unexplained aches and pains: frequent headaches, stomach issues, or body pains with no clear medical reason.
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts: thinking life is not worth living, or in severe cases, planning to harm oneself.
• Pessimistic views about the future: feeling hopeless, helpless, or believing nothing will ever improve.

If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is important to consult a mental health professional. With proper treatment and support, recovery is possible.

Depression Across Age & Gender Groups

Depression does not look the same in everyone. Its symptoms can vary based on age, gender, and life circumstances. Recognizing these differences is important for timely help.

Depression in Children and Adolescents

Irritability or aggression: Instead of sadness, children may show anger, tantrums, or frequent fights.
*Example: A teenager may argue with parents over small matters or become defiant at school.

Poor focus and academic decline: Trouble concentrating often affects school performance.
*Example: A child who previously enjoyed studies may suddenly lose interest and see falling grades.

Sleep or appetite problems: Sleeping too little/too much or changes in eating habits.
*Example: A teen may stay up late gaming and skip meals.

Social withdrawal: Avoiding friends, play, or family.
*Example: A child may stop playing outdoor games and prefer isolation in their room.

Depression in Older Adults (Geriatric Depression)

Physical complaints: More likely to present with aches, pains, fatigue, or digestive issues.
*Example: An elderly person may keep visiting doctors for body pains without medical cause.

Memory problems (Pseudo-dementia): Depression can mimic dementia, with forgetfulness or confusion.
*Example: An older adult may forget appointments, though the root issue is depression.

Irritability or aggression: Restlessness and anger may replace typical sadness.
*Example: A calm grandparent may suddenly snap at family over minor issues.

Depression in Women

Hormonal influences: Depression may occur during pregnancy, postpartum, premenstrual changes, or menopause.
*Example: A new mother may feel persistent sadness, guilt, and disconnection from her baby (postpartum depression).

Emotional symptoms: More likely to experience crying spells, feelings of guilt, and anxiety along with depression.
Social stressors: Balancing work, home, relationships, and societal pressures may add to risk.

Depression in Men

Irritability and anger: Men may show aggression, frustration, or restlessness instead of admitting sadness.
*Example: A man may become short-tempered at work or home without clear reasons.

Risk-taking or substance use: More likely to cope with depression by drinking alcohol, using drugs, or engaging in reckless behaviour.

Work and performance stress: Concerns about career, finances, and societal expectations often trigger depressive episodes.
*Example: A man facing job loss may withdraw socially and drink excessively.

How Depression is Diagnosed

Unlike physical illnesses, most psychological disorders, including depression, do not have a single blood test or scan that can confirm the diagnosis. The imbalance of brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) cannot be detected on routine CT or MRI scans. While advanced techniques like functional MRI (fMRI) may show changes in brain activity, they are not practical for everyday clinical use.

At Asha Hospital, our team uses a thorough and evidence-based approach to diagnose depression:

• Detailed Clinical Interviews: Our psychiatrists spend time understanding your symptoms, mood patterns, medical history, and life circumstances.
• Standardized Depression Rating Scales: Internationally recognized tools are used to measure the severity of symptoms and track progress during treatment.
• Comprehensive Medical Assessment: We carefully evaluate physical health to rule out medical conditions (such as thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, or chronic illnesses) that may mimic or worsen depression.

This holistic approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and helps us design a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Treatment Options for Depression at Asha Hospital

At Asha Hospital, we understand that depression affects each individual differently. Treatment is carefully personalized based on the severity of symptoms, underlying causes, and the patient’s overall health. Mild cases may improve with counselling and lifestyle changes, while moderate to severe depression often requires medications or advanced therapies.

1. Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

Psychotherapy helps patients explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that contribute to depression. Different approaches are chosen based on individual needs:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identifies and changes negative thought patterns.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and communication.
• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT): Combines mindfulness practices with CBT to prevent relapse.
• Couple / Family Therapy: Supports families and partners in dealing with depression together.

2. Medications

Antidepressant medications help correct imbalances in brain chemistry and are often recommended for moderate to severe depression:

• SSRIs, SNRIs, Tricyclics, and other antidepressants are commonly prescribed.
• Most modern antidepressants are safe, well-tolerated, and suitable for long-term use under medical supervision.
• Regular follow-ups ensure correct dosage, minimal side effects, and better recovery outcomes.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

Healthy lifestyle habits are a powerful tool in recovery and play a key role in preventing relapse. At Asha Hospital, we encourage patients to make small but consistent changes such as:

Regular physical activity – Exercise releases natural mood boosters (endorphins).
*Example: A 30-minute morning walk, yoga, or simple stretching can improve mood and energy.

Deep breathing and relaxation techniques – Calms the mind and lowers stress.
*Example: Practicing 10 minutes of slow breathing or meditation before bed can reduce anxiety.

Adequate sunlight exposure – Helps regulate sleep and boosts Vitamin D, which supports brain health.
*Example: Spending 15–20 minutes in the morning sunlight daily.

Balanced diet habits – Nutritious foods support both physical and mental health.
*Example: Eating fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 rich foods like fish or flaxseeds instead of processed snacks.

Proper sleep hygiene – Good sleep restores energy and improves concentration.
*Example: Going to bed at the same time each night, avoiding late-night screen use, and keeping the bedroom calm and quiet.

4. Advanced Therapies

For severe depression, treatment-resistant cases, or when rapid improvement is required, advanced interventions are available:

• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): Highly effective for severe depression, psychotic depression, or suicidal thoughts.
• Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS): A non-invasive therapy for treatment-resistant depression.

Ketamine Infusion Therapy: Provides rapid relief in certain cases of resistant depression under expert supervision

How Family and Friends Can Help if your Loved once Suffering from Depression

Support from loved ones plays a vital role in recovery from depression. At Asha Hospital, we encourage families and friends to follow these simple but powerful steps:

Listen without judgment – Allow the person to share their feelings openly without criticism or advice.
*Example: Instead of saying “You shouldn’t feel this way,” say “I’m here for you, I understand it’s difficult.”

Encourage seeking professional help – Gently suggest visiting a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counsellor.
*Example: Offer to accompany them to their first appointment to reduce anxiety.

Be patient and supportive – Recovery takes time, and progress may be slow.
*Example: Celebrate small achievements, like attending therapy sessions or getting out of bed on tough days.

Stay connected and provide gentle supervision – Isolation can worsen depression, so regular contact helps.
*Example: Call daily, plan short walks together, or invite them for family meals.

Do not belittle or minimize symptoms – Avoid dismissive comments that make them feel guilty or misunderstood.
*Example: Instead of saying “Just be strong,” say “I know it’s tough, and I believe you can get through this with help.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Depression