Dealing with clinical depression and related syndromes is particularly difficult, since these conditions drain sufferers of the energy and motivation they need to get well. A common misconception among people unaffected by depression is that sufferers could just choose to “cheer up” or “get over” their feelings of sadness and loss of hope; in reality, nothing could be further from the truth. People with depression certainly benefit from willpower, but therapy and medical interventions are crucial pieces of the treatment puzzle.
Depression has many faces, including conditions like bipolar disorder, manic depression, atypical depression and psychotic depression. Specific symptoms vary, but all forms include low mood or mood swings, apathy and low self esteem. Self-mutilation and thoughts of suicide are common in depression sufferers, as are insomnia, hypersomnia, decreased sex drive and diminished appetite.
The causes of depression are unclear, but researchers generally favor a biopsychosocial model that includes aspects of both "nature" and "nurture." Many people with depression are victims of physical, sexual, emotional or psychological abuse, or have experienced some form of significant trauma. Also, stressful events or undesirable life changes can trigger the onset of depressive syndromes in adults who have no prior history of mental illness or teenage depression.
Recovering from depression is no small task, but experts say that progressing in small steps is the key to feeling better. Trying to do too much too fast can quickly lead to a sense of failure, which can worsen the negative emotions associated with clinical depression.
Some of the key strategies mental health professionals emphasize include:
Combining these strategies with psychiatric treatment can yield surprisingly positive results. If you’re chronically depressed, don’t suffer in silence. Reach out; there are people waiting to help you.
