Depression is a mental health condition that goes beyond temporary feelings of sadness or low mood. When these feelings persist for weeks or longer, they can significantly interfere with daily life. Depression can be caused by various factors, including genetic predispositions, hormonal changes, and major life events such as relationship challenges, work stress, or issues related to personal identity.

With the appropriate treatment and support, most people experiencing depression can recover and lead fulfilling lives.

Signs and Symptoms

Depression can present itself in many ways, impacting emotional, physical, and social wellbeing. If left untreated, it can lead to serious issues such as strained relationships, difficulties in the workplace, substance abuse, and even thoughts of suicide. Typically, a diagnosis of depression is made when a person experiences several of the following symptoms over a period of more than two weeks:

• Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or feelings of emptiness

• Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable

• Sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep or excessive sleeping

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Physical symptoms like headaches or muscle aches

• Recurring thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm

Treatment Options

Depression is a condition that can be effectively treated. With a thorough assessment and formulation and a personalised treatment plan, many individuals begin to notice improvements within a few weeks.

Treatment may involve talking therapy, medication, occupational therapy or a combination of approaches tailored to meet the individual's specific needs.

How Is Depression Treated?

Treatment for depression is typically based on the results of an assessment and may involve one or more of the following approaches:

• Medication: Various antidepressants are available, though it may take 4 to 6 weeks to feel their full effects. Other types of medications may be used if the depressive symptoms are more resistant to the initial treatments. It’s crucial to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if it doesn’t seem to work immediately. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen, as some individuals may need to adjust their dosage or switch medications to achieve the desired results.

• Psychotherapy: Commonly involving cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy, psychotherapy aims to challenge unhelpful thinking patterns and improve relationship skills, helping individuals manage stressors in their lives.

• Occupational Therapy: Routine, exercise and meaningful activities are an important part of healthy living and recovery from depression. The focus of Occupational Therapy is on helping a person to do the things that are meaningful to them and enhance a sense of purpose in life.

• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): This treatment may be recommended for individuals with severe, life-threatening depression that has not responded to other treatments. ECT involves passing a small electrical current through the brain to induce a carefully controlled seizure, which can help restore the balance of neurotransmitter chemicals in the brain and alleviate symptoms.