Isn’t it a common practice to have something special for dinner or lunch when you have a reason to celebrate? Similarly, it is not unusual for many people to skip a meal or overeat when feeling low or angry. When we are feeling down or happy, we make certain food choices. Our moods affect what we eat. Similarly, what we eat has the power to make a difference in our moods. The effect is more apparent in those who suffer from anxiety or depression as they are more susceptible to mood changes. This also means that making the right food choices can alter our moods to our advantage. Our gut is also known as the second brain and what goes in the gut significantly impacts our mental and emotional wellbeing. Here are some foods to avoid for people susceptible to anxiety or depression.
1. Excessive Sugar
This one is a no-brainer. Sugar increases the glucose levels in the blood leading to a general sense of well-being and happiness. As the glucose levels drop, the person feels low and irritable. Also, sugar has a negative effect on neurons and synapses in the brain. Excessive sugar intake must be avoided.
2. Artificial Sweeteners
Aspartame is an important constituent of all artificial sweeteners. It is also part of colas and diet sodas. Excessive consumption of Aspartame can cause headaches, mood changes and sleep disturbances.
3. Fruit Juices
Drinking juices does not mean you have imbibed the positive benefits of the fruit. Juices are bereft of fibre and may cause a spike in blood sugar levels. For best results, consume whole fruit instead of juice. Packaged juices and beverages are a strict no-no. This can leave you feeling fatigued and depleted apart from causing increased mood changes.
4. Processed and Deep Fried Food
Not only is processed food rich in Trans fats and generally quite harmful for your heart and your health, but it may also increase anxiety and symptoms of depression. Processed and deep-fried food also has a high amount of sodium which tends to cause disruptions in the neurological system. So eat the foods that fight fatigue.
From my knowledge, toast is made of white bread and on digestion, it is converted to blood sugar. Hence, it may result in energy peaks and dips that are detrimental to anxiety and depression. I recommend consuming whole wheat bread in place of white bread.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
Also Read: How to Reduce Anxiety Immediately: Quick and Effective Techniques
5. Alcohol
Alcohol is harmful to your health in multiple ways. Excessive drinking can impact your mood, speech, balance and more. In the long term, alcohol has been shown to affect memory, cognition, balance and mood. People with depression and anxiety must speak to their doctor about assistance quitting alcohol.
6. Caffeine
Those who suffer from depression and anxiety might want to ditch their regular cuppa. Caffeine is a stimulant that disturbs the sleep cycle and causes an energy surge. It also reduces the absorption of important mood-balancing vitamins. The caffeine in energy drinks is equivalent to about 10 cans of soda, so you might want to avoid that too. Choose your drink wisely, moderation is the key.
Also Read: Essential Oils for Anxiety: A Research-Based Holistic Approach
In my opinion, doughnuts should be avoided in case one is prone to or suffering from depression or anxiety. Researchers say that doughnuts contain a lot of added sugar, unhealthy fats, and refined flour with bare minimum fibre that may limit absorption, keeping the body deprived and eventually reducing the coping ability of the body against mental illness.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
The best thing would be to identify the foods that trigger depression and anxiety or increase the two for you. Avoid them at all costs to feel better about your life. Healthy eating habits of fresh fruits and vegetables, cereals and whole grains, nuts and seeds, curd and buttermilk when taken adequately, can help improve your gut health and may aid in balancing mood-related problems.
Read More: Types of Bipolar Disorder You Need To Know About
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Summer, a time associated with fun-filled days in the sun, going to amusement parks and jolly vacations is not always as it looks. Research has proven that several people tend to face SAD or Seasonal affective Disorder during the summers. Although SAD is usually seen in the colder months of winter, a small fraction of people may also experience depressive episodes during the months of summer. The cause may be rooted in biological factors or body issues, disruptive routines, the heat, financial worries or any other personal issue. Depression is a condition that needs evaluation and treatment by a psychiatrist and symptoms should not be ignored at any cost. In addition to your doctor’s advice, here are some ways you can revitalise yourself this summer, beat the blues and overcome the horrid Summer Depression!
The summer season can be strenuous. The overwhelming need to complete all your pending tasks while making plans with your friends can leave you with no time for yourself. Use these easy tips to fight the summer depression.
Never hesitate to seek professional help if you experience symptoms like low mood, sadness, irritability, weakness, hopelessness, disturbed sleep and diet patterns for 2 weeks or more. We hope this summer season you can work on breaking through the summer depression and make memories that you love and cherish through these wonderful tips!
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Pregnancy is a wonderful time for a couple. It also brings with it a variety of new experiences not only because you become a parent but also because a woman’s body goes through a number of physical, emotional and mental changes as it tries to make room for another human in the body. It is a rollercoaster ride and can also be overwhelming and exhausting as you try to process so many new changes in your life.
It is a happy time as you start preparing your nest to bring home a new person. You need to stay positively healthy both in your mind and body so that the 9 months seem like a breeze. However, according to research, about 7% of women tend to feel depressed during pregnancy. And this number saw a surge during the pandemic as 47% of expectant mothers were found to feel depressed and about 60% of pregnant women reported feelings of anxiety.
In this article, let us quickly evaluate how depression is common during pregnancy, why it increased during the pandemic and what can you do to reduce it.
Studies had shown that the rate of anxiety and depression among pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic had raised (20). A review article reported that the anxiety and depressive symptoms were highly prevalent, effecting 58–72% of pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Studies have revealed that women are twice as vulnerable to feeling depressed as opposed to men and this condition starts to peak during their reproductive years. The feelings of stress and anxiety are quite common for women during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, morning sickness, sudden increase or decrease in appetite all contribute to both emotional as well as bodily stress. So, how to recognize that you are going through depression? What are the signs?
Persistence of some or all of the following symptoms for more than 2 weeks-
In addition to prenatal depression, most women also tend to experience post-partum depression (PPD) now called peripartum depression. During and after pregnancy women tend to go through a myriad of emotional, physical and behavioural changes.
According to multiple surveys, almost 70 per cent of all new mothers undergo the ‘baby blues’. This is a short-lived condition that does not affect or impair daily activities and no medical treatment is required.
Some of the most common symptoms of ‘baby blues’ include-
Such symptoms usually only last 7-14 days and recede on their own without medication.
Peripartum depression is not the same as ‘baby blues’. Like any form of depression, postpartum depression too wrecks a person emotionally and debilitates a new mother physically. It may continue for many months and medical treatment is highly recommended.
Postpartum/Peripartum depression can be treated over time with counselling and medication.
A study conducted by the University of Essex in the UK found that the COVID-19 pandemic was responsible for increasing the rate of depression and anxiety in pregnant women. A peer review was carried out taking 150 women between April 2020 and January 2021 which is considered the peak time of the pandemic all around the world to come to these conclusions. Although depression as stated above is quite common in women during the prenatal stage and even after delivery, the paper highlighted the fact that the surge in depression rates was due to the fear and trauma experienced by women at the time of the lockdown during the first wave. It also mentioned that women who had a history of clinical depression or had past traumatic experiences were also at the risk of feeling detached from their newborn babies.
Dr. Rigato from the University of Essex thus came to the conclusion that a woman’s experience during pregnancy played a key role in influencing the nature of her bond with her newborn baby. It has also put forward that women who had a negative attitude or negative takeaway about the COVID-19 pandemic were at a higher propensity to feel greater anxiety, depression and mood changes.
Also Read: Pregnancy Fatigue: Unraveling Causes and Research-Backed Solutions
The tendency of women to feel more anxious during and after pregnancy and the sudden surge in the rates as revealed by the study shows us that expectant mothers are going through a vulnerable time in terms of both mental and physical health during the pandemic. In this regard, the importance of positive social support from loved ones such as family and friends is crucial. Unaddressed mental health crises in women could severely affect the health of the mother, the nature of the delivery, the relationship between the mother and the child and lastly, the development of the infant in its later stages. These mental health issues that arise during or after pregnancy are collectively termed peripartum depression and can be managed well with proper treatment and counselling given on time.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommends taking women for counselling at least once during their pregnancy to screen possibilities of undetected anxiety and depression. Pregnant women and new mothers need to be felt loved and supported by their loved ones to make their most special time healthy as much as possible.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Diabetes is a health condition that can affect people from all age groups. There are many types of diabetes but we will be talking about the two commonly known types of diabetes, namely, Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is predominantly observed in children and adolescents, while Type 2 diabetes is more common among adults and can also affect children. It is not just a physical condition. Diabetes and the mental health of a person are closely related.
Juvenile diabetes or Type 1 diabetes is a type of diabetes diagnosed in children and young adults. But the recent trends have also shown that an increasing number of young adults and adolescents are being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes as well.
When a child is detected with diabetes, it brings about several changes in their lifestyle and health. Individuals with diabetes not only experience physical changes but certain emotional and mental health issues too. Diabetes-related stress manifests as behavioural issues in children, young adults and parents in the form of anxiety, stress and mood swings.
A 2014 study published by the American Diabetes Association shows that really high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can slow the growth of a brain as it develops. The same is true when a child’s levels swing up and down a lot. Brain scans show differences between a child with diabetes and one without.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Children with diabetes often feel that they are different from the rest of their peers. At school, they might have to visit school teachers/medical staff for insulin injections, medicines or testing blood sugar levels, making them feel uncommon or isolated.
Most children and young adults visit parks, malls, food joints, summer camps and sleepovers but children with diabetes are often denied participation in such activities because the parents are constantly worried about their child’s health.
There is a correlation between diabetes and depression. Some studies state that children with diabetes are at increased risk of developing depression. About 15 – 20% of adolescents with diabetes experience diabetes-related depression.
They often feel sadness, irritability, lack of concentration, lethargy, sleep disturbances, appetite changes, low motivation, decreased participation in activities and thoughts about suicide.
Diabetes burnout is a state of low self-esteem, lack of motivation or what can be called diabetes distress. A state of mind where a person feels frustrated with managing the blood sugar levels, feeling dragged down by carrying out all the daily diabetes management tasks or feeling lonely for experiencing diabetes. It often leads to depression associated with diabetes.
Diabetic depression in children and young adults often results in poor health outcomes such as poor diabetic control, increased hospital visits, low confidence, poor quality of life and low self-efficacy, a belief that they are unable to control their diabetes well.
At an age of carefree playfulness, managing diabetes, monitoring blood sugar levels and maintaining several restrictions to keep diabetes in check can be stressful for children and adolescents.
The scheduled hospital and clinic visits for diabetic care, monitoring the associated risk and complications and reducing the risk of or preventing the other infections by maintaining a healthy immune system can get too overwhelming. Hence, diabetes and stress go hand in hand in children.
It is a disorder characterised by abnormal eating behaviour such as binge eating or restricting food intake.
Dietary restriction often makes people with diabetes too conscious about their weight, body and food intake. This practice of decreasing the food intake, increased daily exercise for maintaining body weight often results in punishing the body.
You may observe signs such as weight loss, vomiting, increased frequency of defecation post-meal, restrictive eating, binging, skipping meals, etc.
Diabetes can be a psychologically challenging health condition. Thus, implementing the most appropriate coping strategies can help maintain the mental health of kids with diabetes.
Parents of diabetic children should stay in constant touch with their kids’ teachers and inform them about the child’s health condition. They should also guide the teacher about managing strategies in case a diabetes-related health emergency arises at school.
If you notice any change in your child’s behaviour, you must also contact a child psychologist. The professionals from the team of mental health services can guide you and help you develop positive coping strategies to manage diabetes-related mental health issues of kids.
Children and young adults with diabetes need extra care to cope with the mental stress of diabetes as diabetes is associated with many physical and psychological challenges. Some seem to cope up easily, while others find it difficult. Thus, caregivers and children with diabetes should be vigilant about the mental health issues accompanying diabetes.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
As the name suggests, ‘empty nest’ syndrome refers to the feeling of emptiness that parents go through when their children leave home for work and other reasons. Children grow up and become responsible enough to live alone, they learn to venture into new things and need to step out to meet their personal and professional demands. Parents on the other hand feel abandoned, miss the time spent with their children and this, in turn, can cause them to feel depressed, lonely and alienated. It is not a psychiatric illness but just a term used to denote the condition of parents when the last child leaves home.
As a parent, you want to provide your child with a good education, help them become independent and wish that they prosper in life. This often means your child might have to leave for a boarding school or go to college or work in a place far away from home and this can trigger mixed emotions and become really hard to deal with as parents.
At a young age, children are more dependent on their parents for every little thing, for their meals or studies and the sudden transformation usually affects both the parents.
Empty nest syndrome has three stages: grief, relief, and joy. In the first stage, parents tend to experience sadness, loss, loneliness, or even depression. In the second stage, parents move on to feeling relief and a sense of freedom as they develop a new rhythm of life.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Some parents are more susceptible to empty nest syndrome than others. This may be because of having a single child or if your child leaves earlier than what you expected. Some parents may find living alone really difficult and have an emotional breakdown. Parents who have disturbance or complications in their marriages depend on their children and may feel more lonely when they leave. Parents who rely on their parental roles for self-identity and are full-time parents, suffer separation anxiety when their children leave more acutely. There are parents who like catering to their children’s needs because they think their children are dependent on them and when the children leave and capably look after themselves or parents suffering from a mental illness, anxiety disorder or any other chronic illness tend to have higher chances of experiencing empty nest syndrome.
The causes of empty nest syndrome may vary among parents. Some of them include:
Researchers have found that parents and caregivers suffering from empty nest syndrome may experience the following symptoms:
Empty nest syndrome symptoms can be noticed in both parents. The age group most affected with empty nest syndrome is between 40 – 50. However, based on gender a few things may differ. While women may be at risk of being depressed and experience social withdrawal, the father may turn alcoholic or indulge in substance abuse.
Empty Nest Syndrome can even prompt suicidal thoughts in parents. If you seek timely help, you will be able to deal with this issue better.
Marital stress is not uncommon among parents transitioning into a new rhythm with their children out of the house and can often cause increased tension and bickering. It may be helpful to seek professional help to resolve the issues arising due to this situation as it may be temporary but might have a huge impact on the couple.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
If you think this situation will last forever, remind yourself that it won’t. Your friends and family will support you during this transitional period of your life. You don’t have to deal with this feeling of loss alone. You must speak to psychiatrists, psychologists and ensure that you get proper help to live in a healthy manner. There are therapies to manage your symptoms effectively and keeping your mind calm and stress-free is the best solution for empty nest syndrome.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
According to ‘The Global Burden of Disease Study 1990-2016′, suicide is the most common cause of death among Indians between the age groups of 15 and 39 years. To prevent such an alarming number of suicides, World Suicide Prevention Day is observed on 10th September every year since 2003. This day has been dedicated to creating awareness of suicide, understanding the causes and signs of suicidal tendencies, as well as methods of prevention and providing support to people exhibiting these symptoms.
The theme of World Suicide Prevention Day 2021 is ‘Creating Hope Through Action’ a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and aims to inspire confidence and light in all of us; that our actions, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling.
Just like each year, World Suicide Prevention Day 2021 is significant because it helps spread awareness about the primary causes that can lead up to suicide. According to Dr. Alex Lickerman, the former Director of Primary Care at the University of Chicago, USA, there are five primary causes of suicide.
There are many early warning signs displayed by people with suicidal tendencies. World Suicide Prevention Day 2021 seeks to educate people so that they can identify these indicators at the earliest-
Despite the high prevalence of suicide, they can be prevented with the right level of intervention done at the right time. Understanding the several warning signs and not ignoring them can potentially help save a life.
According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), having regular contact with a primary healthcare provider can help prevent suicide.
However, if thoughts of suicide have crossed your mind, then-
Therefore, the significance of World Suicide Prevention Day 2021 lies in continued support as well as recognition of suicide as a potent public health problem. Suicide can only be prevented by increased awareness about mental health as well as by the cooperation of friends and family members. It is important to understand that any person exhibiting the warning signs of suicide, talking or thinking of self-harm should not be taken lightly, consult a psychiatrist and let him/her understand and evaluate the condition. Act at the earliest to prevent a mishap. Every life is precious, let’s be the source of hope, happiness and support to someone in need.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Thyroid disorders are quite common in India. 1 in every 10 Indians lives with hypothyroidism. For a disorder that is so prevalent, not many people are aware of its symptoms and serious health hazards.
The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland that is located in our neck region. It is responsible for producing two crucial hormones – thyroxine or T4 and triiodothyronine or T3. These hormones regulate metabolism and the functions of almost every cell and all the organs in our bodies. If there is an imbalance in the secretion of these hormones. It will affect all the activities of your body.
Thyroid disorders are more common in women than men. Recent studies have revealed that undetected thyroid problems are behind clinical anxiety and depression cases in both men and women. That is why everyone, especially women, needs to become more aware of the signs and symptoms of a thyroid disorder.
The symptoms that imbalance of thyroid hormones trigger can be very similar to signs of stress. Since we all live with varying degrees of stress and anxiety, people tend to call off the signs of thyroid disorders to the fall-out of stress.
Different types of thyroid disorders present differently. To make it simple, if you have noticed any of the following symptoms, you should consider speaking with a doctor:
Another factor that compounds the situation is that depression is more common among women than men, just like thyroid disorders. That is why, when women experience these symptoms, they instinctively associate them with psychological stress.
Common signs of an underactive thyroid are tiredness, weight gain and feeling depressed. An underactive thyroid can often be successfully treated by taking daily hormone tablets to replace the hormones your thyroid isn’t making. There’s no way of preventing an underactive thyroid.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
What makes matters worse is that undiagnosed and unmedicated thyroid disorders can result in depression. That would make it even more difficult for people to get the medical help that they need.
An increase or decrease in thyroid hormone levels can cause mood changes and anxiety. In such a case, the brain also finds it hard to produce dopamine – the happiness hormone. The more severe the thyroid hormone imbalance, the more prominent depression and anxiety can be.
Hypothyroidism is more common than hyperthyroidism. This is caused when there is a deficiency of thyroid hormones. You can tell that you may have hypothyroidism if you notice:
Depression is a common symptom of hypothyroidism.
Also Read: 8 Most Effective Foods To Fight Thyroid!
You need to understand that signs of depression can be prompted by a thyroid disorder. So if you have been suffering the symptoms discussed above, consult a doctor. Both your psychological and physical health needs special care. And the right action at the right time is essential.
If your doctor suspects a thyroid disorder, you will be recommended a Thyroid Profile Test. This test will check for the levels of T3, T4 and TSH.
Based on the test report, your doctor will prescribe medication. The good news is, medicines can normalise your thyroid hormone levels. They also help get rid of the symptoms. You just need to remember to take your medicines on time and in the right dosage.
Any unusual changes in your mind or body need immediate attention. Show yourself some love and care and consult a doctor right away. Thyroid disorders can trigger many health complications. But with correct diagnosis and medication, you will have an easier time managing this disorder and preventing depression.
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Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Over the last few months, certain events have shone the spotlight on the need to take better care of our mental health. We are living in an era when our psychological well-being is under threat. So, this World Mental Health Day (10th October), let us look into why your psychological happiness is being challenged and what you should do about it.
When WFH became a new norm, we were excited as we all thought that this would save us from physical exertions of travelling back and forth from the office. But unique problems accompany WFH-
The ever-present stress of work overload and conflict is draining us and making us lose interest in life. We feel helpless and misunderstood. This situation gives rise to depression – the silent killer.
Mental health is a universal human right, however the stigma associated with mental health lies deep. It’s estimated that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will experience major depression in their lives. Never neglect your mental health.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Ever since the pandemic struck, we have been reading reports of how unstoppable it is. Millions have contracted it and far too many people have died. We not only fear for our own safety, but also for the health of our parents, grandparents or children who are more vulnerable.
COVID-19 has also triggered immense financial difficulties with thousands having lost their jobs while most others are working on reduced pay. So people are experiencing anxiety over how to make ends meet. The endless worrying over health and finances is another reason why so many people are witnessing depression.
Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood, helping us determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices, thus the importance of World Mental Health Day.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
COVID-19 and WFH are here to stay until we have a vaccine. So we have to take action right now and preserve our mental health. Everyone is in danger. But fortunately, there are a few things you can do to deal with all the factors that cause stress and depression-
1. When you are working from home, assign a separate room for yourself which is to be out of bounds to everyone else, including children. Explain to everyone why a few hours of undisturbed peace are essential for work.
2. Share household chores equally with other members of the household so that everyone’s workload is equally distributed.
3. Avoid fighting with your loved ones, everyone is stressed. When you are angry, breathe in deeply 10 times and your anger will disappear.
4. Practice yoga and deep breathing every day. Don’t forget to exercise as that releases happy hormones.
5. If you realize that you have clinical depression, DO NOT hesitate to seek therapy. Depression can destroy your life.
COVID-19 has affected everyone’s mental health. Talk to your loved ones about your fears and anxiety as that lessens the burden. We are all in it together and with proper caution, we will all emerge unhurt from this crisis.
Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower back or abdomen for pain relief. Rest when needed. Avoid caffeine, smoking and alcohol. Avoid popping pain medications without doctor’s advice as these medicines may have side effects in some cases. If you find that none of these self-care measures are providing relief, it is recommended to seek medical advice from your doctor. They will be able to provide proper guidance and may consider prescribing appropriate medication to help alleviate your pain and other symptoms effectively.
Can PMDD be treated? Yes! Treatments for PMDD include- Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Depression is a mental health disorder that induces a lasting feeling of sadness and loss of pleasure or interest in activities once enjoyed. It is a common yet debilitating condition, which can affect a person’s physical and emotional well being, and interfere with one’s daily functioning.
How prevalent is depression? A report on depression published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatric Nursing claimed that an estimated one out of every 20 adults suffers from depression1
Does depression affect a specific age group? Depression can set in anytime and affect anyone regardless of age and gender. However, on average, it appears first during the late teens or mid-20s. Moreover, the specific mood disorder is more prevalent in women than in men.
Depression is an ongoing problem rather than a passing phase. Depressive episodes may last for about two weeks or more. Sometimes, the condition may persist for several months, weeks, even years.
Medications and psychotherapy are effective for most people with depression. Your primary care doctor or psychiatrist can prescribe medications to relieve symptoms. However, many people with depression also benefit from seeing a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
The symptoms of depression may vary from person to person. Different people – men, women, and children – may experience them differently. Nevertheless, the most common symptoms of depression include the following –
The above symptoms may range from mild to severe, depending on the person’s condition and its causes.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a medical treatment most commonly used in patients with severe major depression or bipolar disorder that has not responded to other treatments, depression with suicidal tendencies or psychotic symptoms are found to benefit from such treatments.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Even though the exact cause of depression is not clearly understood, medical experts suggest that a combination of biological, environmental, psychological, and emotional factors may lead to depressive symptoms. The probable risk factors/causes of depression may include –
Depression often runs in families. If you have someone in your family – a parent, sibling, or a close relative – who has been diagnosed with depression or some other mood disorder, then chances are that you will develop the condition at some point in your life. For instance – if one of the identical twins has depression2, the other one has an increased 70% chance of having the same illness.
Changes in certain chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters) may trigger signs of depression in a person.
A person with a history of alcohol or drug misuse is at a greater risk of developing symptoms of depression. This may happen when the person gives up on the use of these substances, thereby triggering withdrawal symptoms and most definitely causing depression.
Some specific and chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and others may be linked with higher chances of having mood disorders, like depression. Sometimes, certain medications can also trigger symptoms of the condition.
Continuous exposure to neglect, abuse, poverty, or violence can put some people at risk of depression.
People, who have low self-esteem, are typically pessimistic, or are easily overwhelmed by stress, are more susceptible to mood disorders, like depression.
Also Read: Navigating Bipolar Disorder: How a Person With Bipolar Thinks
Fortunately, depression is among the most treatable of mental illnesses. An estimated 80-90% of people with clinical depression respond well to treatment while almost all patients can manage their symptoms.
The following approaches/methods are used to treat depression –
Antidepressants are the most commonly used medications when it comes to treating mood disorders. These medications can alleviate the symptoms of depression and prevent its recurrence. Antidepressants work by modifying one’s brain chemistry. A person taking antidepressants may notice some improvement within a week or two of its use. However, it may take up to three months for the condition to recover. The most common types of antidepressant medications include SNRIs, SSRIs, MAOIs, and TCAs. Doctors usually recommend taking the medications for at least six months after the symptoms have improved, as it reduces the risk of future episodes for people at high risk.
It is important to let your doctor know if the medication does not work. These medicines should only be taken if you have an established disorder, under medical supervision. However, in case you experience some side effects, be sure to inform your healthcare provider of the same.
Psychotherapy, also referred to as talk therapy, can be used alone for treating mild depression, or can be given along with antidepressants to treat moderate to severe depression. The therapy includes various methods like Interpersonal therapy and Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT focuses on altering the thought process and behavioural pattern of the individual through close, face-to-face interaction.
Psychotherapy may involve either the individual or many others. Based on the severity of the depression, treatment may take a few weeks or more. Significant improvement may be observed following 10-15 therapy sessions.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a conventional procedure that is commonly used to treat people, who have bipolar disorder or major depression. This line of treatment is followed when the patient does not respond to medications or psychotherapy. The procedure involves a brief electrical stimulation of the brain while the patient is under anaesthesia. ECT is given to patients 2-3 times a week for a total of 6-12 treatments.
Depression has several forms or categories, depending on the causes and severity of the symptoms. The most common types of depression are described below –
Major depressive disorder, also known as unipolar or clinical depression, refers to the condition where an individual experiences a constant feeling of hopelessness, sadness or despair, and loses interest in various activities that once seemed enjoyable and pleasurable. How long do major depressive episodes last? Episodes of major depression typically continue for about two weeks or more.
As the name suggests, dysthymia or persistent depression is a chronic form of depression, which generally last for several years, thereby interfering with one’s routine tasks and personal relationships. People, who have this condition, often find it hard to be happy even on cheerful occasions. These people may be perceived by others as pessimistic and gloomy when in reality they are coping with a chronic mental illness. How is persistent depression different from clinical depression? The moods experienced in the case of persistent depression are not as severe as those in the case of clinical depression are. However, they may still evoke feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and loss of interest.
Bipolar disorder causes extreme mood fluctuations and changes in one’s behaviour, thoughts, and sleep pattern. With this type of depression, one not just feels ‘low’ but may even have recurrent or frequent thoughts about self-harm, death, or suicide. These excessive mood swings may happen sporadically – perhaps twice a year – or more frequently, like every week.
Bouts of crying, emotional breakdown, and feeling upset are commonly attributed to dramatic hormonal fluctuations, referred to as ‘baby blues’, which most women experience following childbirth. These feelings are very common and these tend to reduce within one or two weeks after childbirth. However, postpartum depression is a more severe form of ‘baby blues’, which can last for months after the child is born. This type of depression is more likely to affect women, who are already struggling to deal with anxiety, sadness, or other symptoms of mental illness. Does postpartum depression begin immediately after giving birth? Postpartum depression does not necessarily start immediately following childbirth. The symptoms may be observed in the initial few weeks after the birth of the child, or sometimes, they may show up months after, perhaps during the baby’s first year.
This particular form of depression is related to seasonal changes. People suffering from seasonal depression notice symptoms starting and ceasing at about the same time, every year. For many people, the signs show up in the fall and last throughout the winters. Nevertheless, symptoms of seasonal depression may occur in summer or spring.
Psychotic depression is characterized by false beliefs and disorganized behaviour or thinking (delusions) and false sounds or sights (hallucinations). As per The National Institute of Mental Health, an individual with this condition is out of touch with reality. They may imagine things and believe them to be true or hear voices. For example – they may think that others are trying to harm them, or that they are wanted for having committed a crime that they did not commit.
This form of depression is considered a disabling and severe subtype of premenstrual syndrome. This involves behavioural and physical symptoms that generally resolve with the beginning of menstruation. The premenstrual dysphoric disorder leads to drastic mood swings that damage relationships and disrupt work.
Atypical depression is a subtype of clinical depression, which describes a pattern of depressive symptoms, such as irritability, overeating, oversleeping, and sensitivity to rejection. Nevertheless, one key characteristic of this type of depression is that individuals experience a lift in their mood when encountering enjoyable, pleasurable activities. How serious can atypical depression be? Just as with any other form of depression, atypical depression is a critical mental health problem. It is linked with a higher risk of anxiety disorders and suicide. Most often this form of depression begins in the teenage years and has long-lasting effects on the person.
Situational depression is a stress-related, short-term form of depression. It may occur after an individual goes through a series of stressful events or experiences trauma, for instance – the loss of someone near and dear, a financial crisis, a failed marriage, or a terminal illness. Most people suffering from situational depression start noticing the symptoms within three months after the triggering event.
This is a fairly recent diagnosis. It appeared for the first time in 2013 in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. DMDD is classified as a depressive disorder, wherein children struggle to control their emotions and moods in an age-appropriate manner. Due to this, they exhibit periodic temper outbursts, either behaviourally or verbally, in response to frustration.
Having an in-depth knowledge of the various forms of depression can help you identify the symptoms better and seek treatment accordingly.
Depression is a serious but manageable condition. With proper diagnosis and treatment, the vast majority of people with depression can overcome it. If you are encountering signs of depression, the first step should be to see your psychiatrist or family physician. Discuss your concerns and request a thorough evaluation – this is a start to addressing mental health needs.
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