Depression

Depression can arise from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, psychological, and medical factors, each contributing differently to the onset, severity, and persistence of symptoms in individuals.

Genetic Factors: A family history of depression can increase an individual’s chances of developing the disorder. Different genes could lead to the onset of depression. However, there is still a lot of research left to be done in the area.

Biological Factors: Low levels or an imbalance of neurotransmitters that help regulate mood are also associated with depression. These include serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

Environmental Factors: Traumatic events, adverse childhood experiences, abuse, loss of a loved one, interpersonal conflicts, or work stressors can also cause depression in people.

‍ Psychological or Social Factors: Depression is associated with negative thought patterns or low self-esteem. The way an individual thinks, such as their thought patterns, can also increase the risk of developing depression.

Medical Conditions: Living with chronic pain or long-term health issues like diabetes, heart problems, or thyroid disorders can play a big role in triggering or worsening depression. These conditions can create a persistent state of physical distress or discomfort, which in turn affects an individual's mental health.

Depression is not a one-size-fits-all condition and there are multiple types, each with distinct triggers, symptoms, and treatment needs. Understanding the various forms of depression can help individuals and families identify what they or their loved ones may be experiencing, enabling more targeted support and intervention. Below are the most recognised types of depression, including both common and clinically specific disorders.

Cadabam’s expert psychologists help patients with Depression by providing a blend of evidence-based therapies tailored to individual needs. Depression is a treatable disorder. If you think you or your loved one is showing signs of depression, it is important to seek immediate help. With the appropriate interventions, depression symptoms can be managed, and the person can go back to living their life normally. Depending on how long the symptoms have lasted, how intense they are, and what the person specifically needs, different types of therapy can be used to effectively support someone dealing with depression. Some of  the treatments for depression include:

Medication Management- Antidepressants are used to manage symptoms of depression by balancing neurotransmitter levels that help in the regulation of mood. There are different types of antidepressants prescribed, such as SSRIs, SNRIs, etc. It is essential to consult your psychiatrist to know what medication would suit your or your loved one’s needs best.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - CBT is a form of therapy that can help individuals identify their negative thought patterns and reframe them into more meaningful thoughts. It establishes the connections between our thoughts and behaviours and how this may be worsening depression symptoms.

Interpersonal Therapy- Interpersonal therapy draws focus to conflicts in interpersonal relationships. By addressing these conflicts and finding ways to solve them, it becomes easier to manage the problems that are contributing to depression.

Family Therapy - Family support is a crucial aspect of psychotherapy that can help family members be aware of the causes, symptoms, and effects of the disorder. This helps them support their loved one and prevent a relapse of symptoms in the future.

Counselling for depression - Through depression counselling, a mental health professional can help you evaluate the problems you are facing and find healthy ways of dealing with them.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy - MBCT is a combination of CBT and mindfulness that can help to overcome negative thought patterns using relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises and meditation.

Group Therapy- Group therapy offers individuals a platform to discuss their problems with others who are going through a similar situation as theirs. Talking to people to whom they can relate and hearing other people's journeys motivates a person to continue their journey to recovery.

In some cases, depression is so severe that the individual does not respond to any form of treatment. Cadabam’s offers evidence-based, world-class treatment options for ECT and rTMS for severe depression treatment.

Electroconvulsive Therapy - ECT is a form of therapy in which electrical stimulation is carefully passed through the brain. This alters brain activity and relieves severe depression symptoms. ‍

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation - rTMS is a form of therapy in which magnetic impulses are passed into the affected part of the brain. This helps to regulate the moods of the individual and manage depression symptoms.