Depression

Depression refers to conditions in which the patient feels down, joyless and low in energy (for the durations defined in the medical literature). Of course, not every low mood is depression. When such complaints persist, the best approach is to consult a psychiatrist. Physically, depression can lead to poor posture, changes in facial expression and increased sensitivity.

What are the clinical symptoms of depression?

• A depressed mood for most of the day
• No longer enjoying activities that used to be enjoyable
• Significant weight gain or weight loss
• Increased or decreased appetite
• Sleep problems or oversleeping
• Being overly irritable or tense
• Fatigue
• Feeling worthless
• Difficulty concentrating

How is depression diagnosed?

Not all of the above symptoms need to be present for a diagnosis of depression. The diagnosis is made if some of these symptoms are severe enough to impair functioning and cannot be explained by other causes.

Can depression be treated?

Depression is an illness that responds very well to treatment. Cooperation between the patient and the physician is very important for a good response. Medication and psychotherapy are used in treatment. Medications should be taken under the physician's supervision, at the right dose and for the right length of time. Otherwise, the treatment will not achieve an adequate response.

Can depression come back?

Depression is an illness that can recur. Factors such as having had depression before, a family history of mood disorders, and co-occurring anxiety or alcohol and substance use increase the likelihood of recurrence.

Attending regular check-ups and following the physician's recommendations is the best way to avoid becoming ill again.

After an evaluation by a psychiatrist, approaches such as antidepressant medications and psychotherapy tailored to the person and their situation are applied. Adherence to treatment, regular exercise, avoiding harmful habits and keeping a regular sleep schedule are very important.