Depression is a clinical mood disorder in which a person experiences a persistent and significant lowering of mood, energy, and interest in daily life. It affects how a person thinks, feels, behaves, and functions in daily living.
Causes
Depression is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors.
- Biological Factors
- Genetics: If there is a family history of depression it makes you vulnerable – though it’s not guaranteed.
- Brain chemistry: Imbalances in serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine can affect mood regulation.
- Medical conditions: Thyroid issues, chronic pain, hormonal changes, and neurological illnesses can contribute.
- Psychological Factors
- Negative thinking patterns
- Trauma or early-life adversity
- Low self-esteem, inadequacy, incompetence, inferiority
- Social Factors
- Stressful life events
- Lack of social support
- Chronic stress environments
- Lifestyle-Related Factors
- Poor sleep
- Substance use
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Personality Factors
- Sensitive, withdrawn, or melancholy personalities
Symptoms
- Emotional Symptoms
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, loneliness
- Irritability or anger
- Hopelessness or helplessness
- Loss of interest
- Physical Symptoms
- Sleep changes
- Appetite changes
- Fatigue
- Unexplained physical pains
- Cognitive Symptoms
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Negative thoughts
- Overthinking
- Behavioural Symptoms
- Social withdrawal
- Decline in performance
- Lack of motivation
- Neglecting hygiene or responsibilities
- Severe Symptoms
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Feeling life has no meaning
- Unmanageable functioning
Diagnosis
- Clinical Interview
- Symptoms, duration, impact
- Past episodes
- Medical & family history
2.Screening Tools
- PHQ-9
- HAM-D
- BDI
- Functional Assessment
- Work/academic functioning
- Social withdrawal
- Self-care
- Suicide risk
Treatment
- Psychotherapy
- CBT
- IPT
- Behavioural Activation
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Lifestyle Interventions
- Exercise
- Sleep regulation
- Balanced diet
- Sunlight exposure
- Substance cessation
- Structured routine
- Social Support
- Family involvement
- Support groups
- Psychoeducation
4.Hospitalisation
- For severe impairment or suicidality
Living with Depression
- Start small
- Create routine
- Physical activity
- Reach out for support
- Avoid alcohol/substances
- Yoga & pranayam
- Break tasks into small steps
- Journaling
- Maintain sleep
- Eat well
- Be kind to yourself
- Celebrate small wins
- Avoid big decisions during lows
- Stay consistent with treatment
- Seek help if unsafe
Suggestions for Caregivers/Family
- Listen without judgment
- Validate emotions
- Be patient
Practical Support
- Help with tasks
- Encourage structure
- Accompany to appointments
Communication
- Use supportive language
- Avoid minimizing
- Check in regularly
Encouragement
- Encourage professional help
- Support healthy habits
- Celebrate progress
Understanding
- Educate yourself
- Recognise symptoms
- Understand lack of motivation is not laziness
Crisis Support
- Take suicidal statements seriously
- Stay with them if unsafe
- Remove harmful objects
Self-Care for Caregivers
- Set boundaries
- Seek help if overwhelmed
FAQ’s
What is depression?
A clinical mood disorder with persistent sadness and functional impairment.
How is it different from normal sadness?
Sadness is temporary; depression is long-lasting.
Early signs?
Low mood, fatigue, appetite/sleep changes, withdrawal.
Causes?
Combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental.
Can it be treated?
Yes
Is medication necessary?
Not always
Recovery time?
Varies widely.
Can exercise help?
Yes
Is it weakness?
No.
Can it return?
Yes.
When to seek help?
Symptoms >2 weeks or suicidal thoughts.
How can family help?
Listening, supporting, encouraging treatment.