Dr. Diana Rangaves, PharmD

Understanding Depression: Symptoms and Treatment

Also referred to as major depressive disorder, depression is a mood disorder that often makes you feel a lack of interest in life or constant sadness. Many people feel depressed or sad at times. It is a normal reaction to life’s challenges. However, when intense sadness, including feelings of worthless, helpless, and hopeless, lasts for days or weeks and keeps you from enjoying your life, it might be more than just sadness. There’s a chance you have depression – a medical condition that can be treated.

Symptoms of depression

Doctors use the DSM-5 manual to diagnose different mental disorders. According to this manual, you have depression if you have five more of the following symptoms that last for two or more weeks.

  • You have a depressed mood for a large part of the day, particularly in the morning
  • You always feel tired or have low energy nearly every day
  • You feel guilty or worthless almost each day
  • You often have a hard time remembering details, making choices, and focusing
  • You feel pessimistic and hopeless
  • You sleep too much or cannot sleep nearly every day
  • You often think about suicide or death
  • You have gained or lost weight
  • You have lost interest in many activities you used to love
  • You always feel slowed down or restless

Although these are the common symptoms of depression, not everyone with depression has the same ones. Besides, the severity of your symptoms, how often they occur, and how long they last will vary from one patient to another. So, consult with a doctor if you think you have symptoms of depression.

Is it curable?

There’s no specific cure for depression, but the symptoms may disappear over time. With effective care and treatment, you can manage depression symptoms successfully and get a chance to enjoy a long, healthy life.

Wrap up

Depression is a health condition that can be treated. If you have the symptoms of depression mentioned above, consult with your doctor. He or she can evaluate your symptoms and offer proper treatment or refer you to a reputable mental health expert.