Feeling sad or depressed during these trying times, lacking or losing interest and pleasure in what used to be exciting daily activities, are but natural reactions to the complexities and challenges in life.
But when sadness persists and becomes intense and eventually entails feelings of unworthiness, despair, and helplessness, it could be depression.
Major depressive disorder, or simply known as depression, is a mood disorder that lasts for weeks to months and keeps you from living a normal life.
It changes the way you feel towards life in general, and affects how you think and behave — which can lead to various emotional and physical problems.
Different manifestations of depression symptoms based on age and gender.
- Men who are depressed seldom admit feelings of self-loathing and hopelessness. Instead, they often express fatigue and loss of interest in work or hobbies. They’re irritable and have difficulty sleeping. They’re likewise more likely to exhibit symptoms of rage, aggression, risky behavior, and are more prone to alcohol or substance abuse.
- Women experience symptoms like intense guilt, overeating, weight gain, and excessive sleeping. Hormonal factors influence depression in women during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
Postpartum depression has become prevalent among women whose mental condition hadn’t been appropriately addressed while they were pregnant.
- Older adults and seniors on the other hand complain more about the physical symptoms of depression rather than the emotional signs. Like fatigue, brain fog, and unexplained aches and discomforts here and there. Some deliberately neglect their appearance and stop taking their maintenance medications.
- The most noticeable symptoms of depression in teens are anger, irritability, and agitation. Some complaint of headaches, gastrointestinal, or other physical pains.
Can depression be treated and prevented?
If you’ve previously suffered from depression, you’re more likely to suffer from it again. Get help if you are experiencing depression symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe antidepressants or other alternative treatments for your type of depression.
Get enough sleep, eat a balanced and healthy diet, engage in regular self-care activities such as yoga, exercise, and meditation to help prevent depression.
Photo: Fredrick
