Depression
It is a disorder of mood, which results in a state of decline of the patient may appear disinterest, sadness, demoralization, decreased self-esteem, may occur in the form of loss of appetite, decreased body weight, asthenia, sleep disturbances with periods of insomnia and drowsiness.
How to Know if You Really Have Depression?
At the time of making a diagnosis correctly, episodes of transient sadness or frustration have been ruled out, which are considered as a natural reaction of the person to negative events such as not accepting themselves as they are, the place where they live may be related to emotional health, our socio-economic environment, climate (lack of vitamin D), and situations of mourning for the loss of a loved one or others such as divorce or separation.
Take into account that depression can also be hereditary (20-30%). In studies, it has been determined that in monozygotic twins there is a 50% more likely that one of the brothers suffer from depression, and 25% in the case of dizygotic twins. However, identifying the symptoms at an early age makes it possible to perform early treatments and prevent them from becoming older.
Consequences of the Depression According to its level of Gravity
Mild Depression:
This lasts no longer than two weeks, increased fatigue capacity, or loss of normal vitality, vulnerability to stress, resulting in very complicated, anxiety and irritability, reduced tolerance to pain, low physical activity. There is no need for the consumption of psychoactive substances or mental disorders such as antidepressants. These patients, in general, are able to continue with their usual activities with total normality.
Moderate Depression:
The patient presents loss or absence of interest for previously pleasurable activities, increased fatigue capacity or loss of habitual vitality, loss of self-esteem and self-confidence, worsening of cognitive function in 94% of cases , such as: planning, decision making, concentration, organization, recent and long-term memory, mental acuity, speed of thought and judgment, somatic changes such as fatigue, changes in appetite, weight variations, sexual dysfunction and stomach problems , inability to feel pleasure and enjoy rewarding moments,. Feeling of unjustified inferiority prolonged in time, Appearance of slowness of motor functions, or agitation.
Severe Depression:
These patients present an emotional situation markedly linked to anxiety, especially with loss of self-esteem and intense feelings of guilt and worthlessness, pessimistic and suicidal thoughts, overeating or loss of appetite, persistent pain and discomfort, headaches, cramps, or problems digestive problems that are not relieved even with treatment, presence of somatic syndrome, composed of hallucinations, delusions, psychomotor retardation or severe stupor, concordant or not with the mood of the patient.
In these episodes, the suicide attempts, associated with the somatic burden, are relevant, mainly in male patients, so these patients must be constantly monitored and, in certain cases, the hospitalization of the patient should be assessed.
Treatments for Depression
In patients with moderate or severe depression, pharmacological therapy is considered a first-line treatment, Guided self-help: Its objective is for patients to acquire self-control skills and manage the symptoms of this disorder. Physical exercise: The ability of physical exercise to improve personal well-being, both physical and mental, is demonstrated.
How to Avoid Relapse
Exercise because endorphins are generated, also known as happiness hormones, also reduces anxiety and stress.
Good emotional relationships, which includes family, friends and couples, people who provide emotional support and a peaceful environment.
Regulation of sleep habits and establish a routine.
Contact with sunlight (vitamin D) since it is related to good mood and energy, with two hours a day basking in the sun.
Practice meditation or taichi, as it has been shown that some stress reduction therapies help reduce the risk of recurrence in patients who had a depression.
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