Many people wonder if depression can be cured. Depression is a very real and challenging condition that affects millions of people around the world. If you or a loved one is struggling with persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest in everyday activities, please know that you are not alone. Depression is a common mental health issue. With the right treatment, those affected can regain their joy and live fulfilling, productive lives.
Understanding Depression
This article will discuss depression, how it can show up, and the different treatments that can help.
Depression can feel overwhelming. However, the path to recovery is well-known. With the right support and care, most people can find their way back to emotional wellness. By understanding depression and proven management strategies, we can offer hope to those struggling. This can empower them to take the first steps towards a brighter future.
So, if you or someone you know is facing the challenges of depression, take heart. The solutions are out there, and with the right information and resources, a full and joyful life is absolutely within reach. Let’s dive in and explore the ways in which depression can be effectively addressed and overcome.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in regular activities. Those affected often have difficulty functioning in their daily lives as a result.
Symptoms of Depression
Major Depressive Disorder is one of the most common mental health disorders in the U.S., but the signs and symptoms of all forms of depression are similar, as are treatment approaches.
Anyone who is suffering from some or all of the following symptoms, most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, should contact their physician or mental health provider for help.
Depression Symptoms of depression may include:
- Persistent sadness, tearfulness, anxiety, hopelessness
- Feeling empty, without purpose
- Pessimism, feeling nothing will get better
- Angry outbursts, feeling worthless or helpless
- Feeling restless, irritable, or edgy
- Feeling guilty and focusing on failures
- Loss of interest in people, hobbies, and activities they once enjoyed
- Fatigue, loss of energy, moving and talking slowly
- Changes in appetite or weight changes
- Difficulty with memory, concentration, and decision making
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Unexplained physical pain, like back pain, headaches, or digestive problems
- Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
Causes of Depression
The exact origins of depression are not entirely clear, as it likely arises from a complex interplay of various factors. Rather than a single cause like a chemical imbalance, depression is believed to stem from a combination of biological, genetic, environmental, and emotional elements working together.Any of the following factors may contribute to depression:
Disrupted Mood Regulation. Depression may involve dysregulated mood control. Specific regions and functions of the brain are responsible for regulating our emotional state. Imbalances or fluctuations in the levels of key brain chemicals (such as serotonin, which regulates mood) and neurotransmitters (chemical messengers that transmit signals between nerve cells), including dopamine, glutamate, and norepinephrine, could contribute to the onset of depressive symptoms.
Nerve circuits. Researchers believe dysfunction in nerve circuits may contribute to depression.
Genes. Scientists have identified certain genes in those with mood disorders that may increase the risk of developing depression.
Personality. People with low self-esteem and those with a negative or pessimistic outlook may be more at risk of depression.
Trauma. Experiencing significant trauma, such as physical or emotional abuse, a serious accident, assault, the loss of a loved one, conflict with family/friends, or a natural disaster, can increase the risk of developing depression. If the symptoms stemming from such traumatic events do not diminish over time, they may instead persist and heighten the likelihood of depression taking hold.
Major life event. Losing a job, divorcing, retiring, or even a positive major event can cause stress, which may trigger depression.
Substance abuse. Using drugs or drinking too much can make you feel lonely, sad, and hopeless. These feelings are linked to depression. In fact, substance abuse and depression often occur together. One condition can increase the risk and severity of the other.
Medications. Some drugs prescribed for acid reflux, allergies, anxiety, sleep, and other conditions may trigger depression as a side effect.
Medical problems. A serious illness, injury, disability, or other medical problem can trigger depression.
Prevalence of Depression
Depression affects about 300 million people worldwide. Though depression cannot be fully “cured,” it can be effectively managed through various treatments, allowing those affected to live fulfilling, productive lives. Unfortunately, around 35% of people dealing with depression never receive the care they require.
How Common is Depression?
Image Courtesy of Gallup and ABC News
Depression is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people in the United States each year. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated 21 million adults in the U.S. experience at least one major depressive episode each year. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, this represents 8.4% of all American adults.
Is Depression More Common At Certain Ages?
Image Courtesy of Mental Health America MAHNational.org
Depression can occur at any age, but it is most commonly seen in young adults (NIMH: Major Depression article), with the highest rates occurring in individuals aged 18 to 25 years old.
The American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual states that depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in once enjoyable activities.
People with depression may also experience changes in sleep, appetite, energy levels, and difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
In some cases, depression can lead to thoughts of suicide or self-harm, which requires immediate medical attention.
The causes of depression are complex and can involve a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors (NIMH: What is Depression).
Certain life events, such as the loss of a loved one, a chronic illness, or financial difficulties, can also trigger the onset of depression in some individuals.
Depression Affects People of All Ages
Severe depression, clinically referred to as major depressive disorder, impacts a significant portion of the population. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), over 19 million adults in the United States have severe depression. Depression does not just affect older people. NAMI also found that around 3.1 million teenagers aged 12 to 17 had at least one depressive episode in the past year.
Types of Depression
There are several types of depression with differing levels of severity, but all are mood disorders. The two most commonly diagnosed forms of depression are:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD), also known as clinical depression
- Persistent depressive disorder (PDD), formerly called dysthymic disorder
People with either disorder struggle with low mood, although symptoms may not be as severe in PDD. The major difference between MDD and PDD is the duration of symptoms.
Individuals diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) have experienced at least one major depressive episode lasting two weeks or longer. To be classified as MDD, there must be a gap of at least two months between episodes. Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) requires symptoms to persist for a minimum of two years.
Depression, including both MDD and PDD, is more prevalent in women than men. Although it can affect individuals of any age, women aged 18 to 25 are most frequently diagnosed with MDD. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that women are nearly twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with PDD.
Other Forms of Depression
Other serious, but less commonly diagnosed, forms of depression include:
- Psychotic depression: Severe depression combined with hallucinations or delusions.
- Postpartum depression: May occur during pregnancy or after giving birth.
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: A severe form of premenstrual syndrome, resulting in extreme mood shifts.
- Situational depression: Triggered by a traumatic event like the death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, or accident. It usually develops within three months of the traumatic event. This form of depression does not meet the diagnostic criteria for clinical depression and is usually present short term.
- Seasonal affective disorder: This is a subset of depression because it is seasonal, typically beginning and ending at the same time each year.
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by alternating periods of low mood (depression) and very high mood (mania). Unlike those with depression, individuals with bipolar disorder experience these significant mood swings, which include episodes of elevated mood. Typically, people with depression do not have periods of elevated mood during their depressive episodes.
Risks of Untreated Depression
Many people have more than one serious depressive episode in their life. If untreated, MDD or any depressive disorder is serious. Not only does the condition cause needless suffering, but it can also contribute to risky behavior, work or school problems, substance abuse, damaged relationships, serious physical illnesses, and more. Without professional interventions, depression can last for years.
Detrimental Effects on Mental and Physical Health
Untreated depression can have far-reaching negative impacts, affecting both mental and physical well-being. Beyond the emotional toll, depression can lead to a variety of detrimental cognitive and physical health outcomes.
Impact on Cognitive Function and Reasoning
Studies find individuals with Major Depressive Disorder often experience higher levels of inflammation in the brain. This inflammation may affect the areas that regulate reasoning and concentration.
The inflammation can contribute to cognitive decline. This makes it more difficult for those with untreated depression to focus and problem-solve. Impaired cognitive abilities can in turn worsen the symptoms of depression.
This creates a vicious cycle that erodes both mental and functional well-being. Seeking treatment for depression is crucial. This can help preserve healthy brain function and maintain the ability to think clearly.
Increased Risk of Physical Illnesses
Untreated depression is linked to a higher risk of developing serious physical health problems. The chronic stress and inflammation associated with depression can take a toll on the body, increasing the chances of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
Link to Heart Disease and Diabetes
Many studies support the link between depression and an increase in blood pressure, insulin, and cholesterol levels, irregular heart rhythms, and an increase in stress hormones. These factors increase an individual’s risk of heart disease.
A meta-analysis of 23 studies, published in the Journal of Journal of Clinical Psychiatry revealed that participants with depression had a much higher incidence of diabetes compared to those without depression.
Decreased Bone Density
Research has found a correlation between depression and lower bone density, including a higher rate of osteoporosis. Experts believe depression causes an increase in the activity of cells that break down bone.
Other Physical Symptoms
Migraines, chronic pain, and gastrointestinal problems also occur more frequently in those with depression. These issues may be of unexplained origin or may be chronic conditions that worsen the symptoms of depression.
The risk of suicide is much higher for people with untreated depression. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 90 percent of those who die by suicide have a mental disorder like depression or a substance use disorder.
Factors That May Increase the Risk of Suicide
Suicide is a devastating outcome of untreated or poorly managed depression. Certain risk factors can significantly increase the likelihood of a person with depression attempting or dying by suicide.
Both individuals and healthcare providers must be aware of these risk factors to take proper preventative measures.
Previous Suicide Attempt
One of the strongest predictors of future suicide risk is a prior suicide attempt. People who have previously tried to take their own lives are much more likely to try again, sometimes with deadly results.
Family History of Suicide
Having a family member who has died by suicide can increase an individual’s own risk of suicidal behavior. This can be due to a combination of genetic predisposition, learned behaviors, and shared environmental factors.
History of Abuse or Trauma
Experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, along with other traumatic events greatly increases the risk of suicide. This risk is especially high when combined with depression.
Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions
Having other mental health disorders like substance abuse, anxiety, or psychosis can increase the risk of suicide for those with depression. These additional conditions make the danger even greater.
Access to Lethal Means
Easy access to firearms, medications, or other potentially lethal methods can make suicide attempts more likely to result in death, underscoring the importance of restricting access to these means.
Lack of Social Support
Feelings of isolation and a lack of a strong support network from family, friends, or community are linked to higher suicide risk among those with depression. Without these connections, the risk of suicide increases for individuals experiencing depression.
Elderly Population
Older adults with depression have a higher risk of suicide compared to other age groups. This increased risk is often due to factors such as chronic illness, loss of independence, and social isolation.
8 Warning Signs a Person is Seriously Considering Suicide
Certain behaviors, comments, actions, and moods can be warning signs that someone might be thinking about suicide. If you notice any of these signs, it’s very important for family, friends, or the person themselves to quickly reach out to a doctor, mental health professional, or a suicide hotline for help.
Learn more from WebMd’s Article: Warning Signs of Suicide
1. Preoccupation with Death
Frequently talking, writing, or thinking about death, dying, or suicide, including discussing suicide methods or sharing suicide notes or letters.
2. Depressive Symptoms
Exhibiting symptoms of severe depression, such as deep sadness, apathy, hopelessness, angry outbursts, tearfulness, and extreme mood swings.
3. Risky Behaviors
Engaging in reckless or dangerous activities, including driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, that could lead to fatal outcomes.
4. Substance Abuse
Increased use of alcohol or drugs, which can impair judgment and increase suicidal tendencies.
5. Making Concrete Plans
Putting personal affairs in order, giving away belongings, or writing a will or suicide letter, as if preparing for death.
6. Expressing Hopelessness
Verbal expressions of feeling that life is not worth living or that the person’s loved ones would be better off without them.
7. Searching Online for Suicide Methods
Conducting online searches for information about ways to commit suicide or how to obtain lethal means.
8. Acquiring Lethal Means
Purchasing firearms, medications, or other items that could be used to harm oneself, especially if the person has a history of suicide attempts.
Remember, if you or a loved one are struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.
Treatment Options That Can Cure Depression
Fortunately, depression is highly treatable. In fact, according to the American Psychiatric Association, “depression is among the most treatable of mental disorders.”
Although it may take time, 80 to 90 percent of people who undergo treatment for depression respond well and notice significant improvements in symptoms.
Experts say that treating depression works best with a mix of therapy and prescribed medications. Additionally, avoiding alcohol and drugs, managing stress, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and having long-term support are key for effective long-term results.
Psychotherapy: The Foundation of Depression Treatment
Psychotherapy, also known as “talk therapy,” is a key part of treating depression. It helps you understand what’s causing your depression and change negative thoughts. It also teaches you skills to handle things that trigger your depression. Sometimes, antidepressant medications are used as well.
Common therapy options include individual therapy, family or couples therapy, and group therapy. Depending on your needs, you might find one or more of these approaches helpful.
Studies have identified several therapeutic techniques that are particularly effective in the treatment of depression. Some of the most common techniques include:
Psychodynamic or psychoanalytic therapy helps you understand and reframe negative emotions. These emotions may come from conflicts or trauma experienced in childhood.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their depression. The goal of CBT is to replace these unhelpful thoughts and behaviors with more positive, realistic ones.(American Psychological Association (APA): What is CBT)
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
IPT focuses on improving the individual’s interpersonal relationships and communication skills, which can help alleviate the symptoms of depression. This therapy explores how the person’s relationships and life changes may be contributing to their depressive episode.(APA: What is Interpersonal Therapy?)
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
MBCT combines elements of CBT with mindfulness practices, such as meditation and breathing exercises. This approach helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, and learn to accept them without judgment, which can reduce the risk of relapse. (APA: What is Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy)
Medications: Regulating Brain Chemistry to Alleviate Symptoms
In addition to psychotherapy, medication can also be an effective treatment for depression.
Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and tricyclic antidepressants, work by regulating the brain’s neurotransmitters, which can help alleviate the symptoms of depression.(NIMH: Mental Health Medications Guide)
It’s important to know that medication works differently for everyone. You should work closely with your healthcare provider to find the right medication and dosage for you.
Besides therapy, making some lifestyle changes can also help you live a more fulfilling and happy life.
10 Lifestyle Strategies to Manage Depression
Besides therapeutic approaches, there are many steps you can take to improve and manage your symptoms of depression. These include:
- Attend sessions and appointments as scheduled, and complete any assignments suggested by your therapist.
- Take medications as prescribed. If a medication is not working, notify the doctor. ***Never abruptly stop taking an antidepressant***
- Avoid illegal drugs and alcohol.
- Practice stress management and relaxation skills. This may include practices like yoga, mindfulness, meditation, journaling, and reading inspirational stories.
- Commit to a nutritious diet, avoiding processed food and sugar. Drink the recommended amount of water each day.
- Exercise regularly. This could be as simple as walking for 30 minutes while connecting with nature. Exercise triggers the brain to increase levels of chemicals that improve mood.
- Get sufficient sleep. Guidelines suggest adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep each night.
- Support Network. Developing and maintaining a strong social support network, such as by joining a local support group.
- Hobbies. Engaging in purposeful activities and hobbies that provide a sense of meaning and accomplishment
- Gratitude. Practicing gratitude and focusing on the positive aspects of your life, even during difficult times
Relapse, Slips, and Recurrence in Depression
One of the key challenges in managing depression is the risk of relapse and recurrence.
Even after successful treatment, individuals with depression have a high likelihood of experiencing another depressive episode or slip in the future.
According to the American Psychological Association, up to 50% of people who have had one major depressive episode will have another, and the risk of recurrence increases with each subsequent episode.
Differentiating Relapse and Temporary Setbacks
Understanding the difference between relapse and temporary setbacks is crucial when discussing the recurrence of depressive symptoms. Relapse refers to a return of the full depressive episode, meeting the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder.
In contrast, a temporary setback is a short-lived and more minor resurgence of some depressive symptoms, without reaching the clinical threshold for a full relapse.
For example, a temporary setback may involve a day or two of increased sadness, decreased motivation, or other depressive symptoms that the individual is able to manage through the use of their coping strategies and support system. These temporary setbacks are a normal part of the recovery process and do not necessarily indicate a full-blown relapse.
Preventing Relapse
Maintaining consistent treatment and incorporating the lifestyle strategies outlined previously, such as stress management, healthy habits, and strong social support, can help prevent relapse.
Patients should be encouraged to adhere to their treatment plan, communicate any concerns with their providers, and proactively manage their mental health.
Managing Recurrence
Even with the best efforts, some people might have their depressive symptoms come back. Acting quickly is important. Recognizing early warning signs and using coping skills can help prevent a full relapse.
Patients should feel confident about reaching out to their treatment providers and support network if they notice troubling symptoms. By understanding the risk of relapse and learning ways to manage it, individuals can play an active role in their long-term recovery from depression.
Find Support – Don’t Go It Alone
Don’t face depression and treatment alone. A support system can greatly help your recovery.
Family and friends can be supportive, but they might not fully understand what you’re going through unless they’ve had depression themselves.
Look for a support community that suits you. Your treatment center might have a support group, or your doctor or therapist can suggest local or online options.
Seek Support – You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
Overcoming depression is a deeply personal journey, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Reaching out to your support system – whether that’s family, friends, a therapist, or a support group – can make a meaningful difference.
Confiding in trusted loved ones and seeking encouragement from those who care about you can provide invaluable comfort and motivation along the way.
Remember, you deserve support and compassion as you work towards healing and a more fulfilling life. Take that first step to connect with the people and resources that can uplift and empower you. With the right support system in place, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges and find the path forward.
At Rising Phoenix Wellness Services, we help individuals manage substance use and mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression and need support, we may be able to help. Contact us today for a free consultation