Depression

3 January 2025

man looking depressed with hands on head

Depression is a debilitating condition and can have an enormous impact on everyday life. With the right treatment and professional support depression can be overcome.

A Feeling of Emptiness

Depression is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable.

Depression can cause feelings of sadness or a persistent feeling of emptiness and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. It can also lead to various emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home.

While feeling down or sad from time to time is normal, depression is different. It is a persistent condition that interferes with your everyday life and can cause significant emotional and physical pain.

Causes of Depression

The exact cause of depression is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be a complex interplay of factors, including:

Brain chemistry: Changes in the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, are thought to play a significant role in depression.
Genetics: A family history of depression increases your risk of developing the condition. However, having a family history doesn’t guarantee you’ll get depression, and many people with depression don’t have a family history.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as chronic pain, heart disease, and thyroid problems, can increase your risk of depression.
Substance abuse: Alcohol and drug abuse can both contribute to depression and make it harder to treat.
Life events: Stressful life events, such as a job loss, a death in the family, or a relationship breakup, can trigger a depressive episode.
Personality: People with certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem or a tendency to be pessimistic, may be more vulnerable to depression.

Who Is At Risk for Depression?

While anyone can develop depression, certain factors increase your risk:

Women: Women are more likely than men to experience depression. Hormonal changes throughout life, such as puberty, pregnancy, postpartum period, and menopause, may play a role in this increased risk.
Age: Depression can occur at any age, but it is most common in adults aged 18 to 25 and adults over 65.
Family history: Having a close family member with depression increases your risk.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as chronic pain, heart disease, and thyroid problems, can increase your risk of depression.
Substance abuse: Alcohol and drug abuse can both contribute to depression and make it harder to treat.
Stressful life events: Stressful life events, such as a job loss, a death in the family, or a relationship breakup, can trigger a depressive episode.
Personality: People with certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem or a tendency to be pessimistic, may be more vulnerable to depression.

Symptoms of Depression

Depression can manifest differently in each individual. However, some common symptoms include:

Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness: This is the hallmark symptom of depression and can last most of the day, nearly every day.
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed: Activities that you used to find enjoyable no longer bring you pleasure. This can include hobbies, social activities, or even sex.
Significant changes in appetite or weight: You may experience unexplained weight loss or gain. Some people with depression may lose their appetite and eat less, while others may overeat due to emotional distress.
Sleep problems: This can include difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much.
Restlessness or slowed down behavior: You may feel restless and agitated or experience a significant slowdown in your movements and speech (psychomotor retardation).
Loss of energy or fatigue: You may feel constantly tired, even after a good night’s sleep.
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt: You may have persistent feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt, even over minor things.
Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions: You may experience problems with focus, memory, or decision-making.
Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide: If you have thoughts of death or suicide, it’s crucial to seek immediate help.

It’s important to note that not everyone with depression will experience all of these symptoms. The severity of symptoms can also vary from person to person.

Living with Depression

If you suspect you or someone you know might be struggling with depression, it’s important to seek professional help. Depression is a treatable condition, and with the right treatment, most people can feel better and resume their normal lives. Here’s what you can expect:

Diagnosis

A doctor or mental health professional will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose depression. This may involve:

Mental health assessment: The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. They may also use standardized questionnaires to assess the severity of your depression.
Physical examination: A physical exam may be conducted to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.
Psychological testing: In some cases, psychological testing may be used to assess your mood, personality, and cognitive function.

Treatment

Once diagnosed, a treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Depression treatment typically involves a combination of:

Psychotherapy: Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy can help you understand your depression, develop coping mechanisms for managing symptoms, and identify negative thought patterns that may be contributing to your depression. There are different forms of psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and psychodynamic therapy.
Medication: Antidepressant medications can help regulate the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression. Different types of antidepressants work in various ways, and your doctor will determine the most suitable medication for you. It’s important to be patient as it may take several weeks for antidepressants to reach their full effect.
Lifestyle changes: Making healthy lifestyle changes can significantly improve your mood and overall well-being. This includes:
- Regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Physical activity is a natural mood booster and can help reduce stress and improve sleep.
- Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can provide essential nutrients that support your brain health and well-being. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
- Quality sleep: Getting enough sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Develop a relaxing bedtime routine and practice good sleep hygiene to promote better sleep.
- Stress management: Chronic stress can worsen depression symptoms. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help manage stress and improve your overall well-being.
- Social connection: Social isolation can exacerbate depression. Make an effort to stay connected with loved ones, friends, and social support groups. Spending time with others can provide a sense of belonging and support.
Self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential for managing depression. This includes prioritizing activities you enjoy, setting realistic goals, and learning to say no when you need to.

Remember, depression is a treatable condition. With the right treatment and support, you can manage your symptoms and live a full and fulfilling life. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you are struggling.

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

To discuss any issues related to depression make an appointment with one of our private GPs. Appointments are available to everyone and can often be booked for the same day. There is no need to be registered with our Buckinghamshire hospital, or live locally.

Should you have insurance which covers a GP visit, we can in most cases invoice. Where you are paying directly, the cost for a 30 minute consultation is £125.

Any additional costs will always be discussed. They could apply if you are referred for an MRI scan, or to a consultant, or for other agreed decisions to support your health.

Our Resident Private GP

Dr Chamali is welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.