Depression

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a constant feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also referred to as clinical depression or major depressive disorder, it can affect how you feel, behave and think. It can lead to different physical and emotional problems. You can find it challenging to handle regular day-to-day tasks. Sometimes, you may not see the value of life.

Contrary to common belief, depression is not a weakness or something you can snap out of. It may need long-term treatment, but that should not be discouraged. If you suffer from depression in the Greater Lowell area, you should know that you are not alone. Many people suffering from depression feel better after receiving treatment, and you are not any different. Book an appointment with our North Chelmsford Depression specialists, to begin treatment today.

Symptoms of Depression

Although you may only experience depression once in your whole life, you may go through multiple episodes. During the depression episodes, you will notice symptoms most of the day, almost every day. Common symptoms of depression include:

• Feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, tearfulness, or sadness.
• Irritability, anger, and frustration even over insignificant matters.
• Loss of pleasure or interest in usual activities such as hobbies, sex, or sports.
• Sleep problems such as sleeping too much or insomnia.
• Lack of energy and fatigue, so you need extra effort even for small tasks.
• Agitation, anxiety, and restlessness.
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and self-blame.
• Slowed speech, body movement, and thinking.
• Trouble concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
• Reduces appetite and weight loss or compulsive eating and weight gain.

For many people dealing with depression, the symptoms can often cause noticeable problems with regular activities such as school or work. You may feel unhappy without an apparent reason.

When Should You See a Specialist?

If you have any symptoms of depression, you should book an appointment with a specialist as soon as possible. If you have doubts about seeking professional assistance, you can talk to your friend, loved one, or someone you are comfortable with.

If you think your depressive feelings may trigger you into self-harm, you must call an emergency number without hesitation. You can also contact your doctor or a mental health expert, the suicide hotline number, a close friend, or a spiritual leader.

If you think your loved one has depression and could hurt themselves, make sure they stay with someone. If they have made a suicide attempt, contact the local emergency number. If you can get them to a hospital safely, do so and check them into the emergency room.

Common Causes of Depression

The exact cause of depression remains unknown. However, it may stem from many different factors, including:

• Biological differences. People suffering from depression appear to show some physical changes in their brains, but the magnitude of the changes remains unknown.
• Brain chemistry. Changes in the effect and function of neurotransmitters and their interaction with neurocircuits responsible for maintaining mood stability may have a role in depression.
• Changes in hormones and hormonal balance.
• Inherited traits.

To summarize, depression is a mood disorder that causes constant sadness and loss of interest. Symptoms of depression come in episodes, and they can prevail most of the day over several days. Make sure you see a specialist if you think you have depression. Call the local emergency number if you think you can cause self-harm or suicide or someone you know is considering or has attempted suicide. The primary cause of depression remains unknown.