There are a variety of symptoms and causes of depression. Millions of people suffer. It involves more than feelings of sadness here and there. With depression, there is a pervasive feeling of sadness everyday day, for most of the day, over a 2 week time period. It can be so debilitating that someone may not be able to function and do simple things we take for granted like bathing or going to work.
Symptoms and causes of depression
Decrease in interest or pleasure of activities
The person does not want to engage in things that normally bring them enjoyment. They may not be motivated to do anything.
Significant increase or decrease in weight
Depression impacts everyone differently. Some won’t want to eat or eating is too much effort. On the flip side, they may overeat to numb their pain.
Trouble with sleep
Some people want to sleep all day long. The thought of getting out of bed can be too much. In addition, they don’t feel restful even after all this sleep. Others have difficulty sleeping.
Lack of energy
People who struggle with depression may have feelings of exhaustion. This fatigue may be physical or emotional.
Trouble concentrating and making decisions
Because depression can impair cognitive processes, there may be challenges with memory. The person may feel if they are in a fog, which will impair school or work.
Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
They may blame themselves for things that they have no control over. Thus their self-esteem can suffer. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness.
Irritability
Some people with depression may feel a sense of agitation and restlessness. This may impact their relationship with others and their fuse may be short.
Thoughts of suicide
There may be persistent thoughts of dying, or even a plan to end their life. It is important to take these thoughts seriously. If you are having thoughts of suicide text 988 for the suicide hotline, or seek out treatment for your depression.
There are many different things that can lead to depression. A combination of factors typically comes in to play. This varies from person to person.
Causes of depression
Biology is one of the major causes of depression
Genetics, hormonal imbalance or brain chemistry can make someone more susceptible to depression. There may be a specific gene that leads to depression. Thus if one of your parents are depressed, you may be more likely to develop it yourself.
Imbalance in various neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin can also lead to depression.
Psychological factors
Various personality traits can increase your chances of suffering from depression, such as perfectionism, pessimism and being self-critical.
If you have experienced trauma, abuse or death of a loved one, you are also at greater risk.
Chronic stress can trigger depression by wearing down a person’s resilience.
Environmental factors
Things such as socioeconomic status, availability of healthcare and the condition in which one lives would impact any of us. Those who struggle financially or live in poverty are at higher risk. Unsafe environments can also make one more susceptible.
Medical causes of depression
Emotional challenges also come with the physical challenges of a chronic illness, or sudden change in health. Certain medications to treat some conditions can have a side effect of depression. Those with thyroid issues can also become depressed.
Substance abuse
Abuse of drugs or alcohol can lead to depression. In addition, substance abuse can worsen someone’s existing depression. Substance abuse is a major cause of depression.
Social/cultural causes of depression
If someone experiences discrimination, oppression or isolation, they may feel a sense of despair or hopelessness. Cultural norms or expectations can impact how someone feels about their mental health issues. They may experience shame or fear speaking about their situation.
How to help with symptoms and causes of depression
Often times people who have never experienced depression think that someone can just snap out of it. It isn’t that simple. Most people who feel that way, don’t want to feel that way. If left untreated there can be some serious consequences.
Offer support
Doing so will let them know that you care about them. They are not in this alone
Supply hope
Hopelessness is a serious symptom of depression. If you can give them hope, or something to look forward to, it can help them move through their depression.
Listen to their causes of depression
Let the person talk about their feelings and what is going on. Doing so will help them deal with their emotions. In addition, just talking things out may help them solve their problems.
Provide encouragement
Doing so can help the person gain energy to try something different. It can help them move forward vs. being stuck.
As you can see, there are a variety of symptoms and causes of depression. Learning the symptoms can help you understand what is happening. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. You don’t have to suffer alone. If you are feeling sad or depressed, therapy can help. Give me a call at 713-304-6554 and we will come up with a game plan to get you back on track.
Take care,
Debbie
