DEPRESSION – PREVENTION AND CURE

Welcome to the twenty first century. As we evolve at lightning speed, life is faster, easier and more complex, but at a terrible cost. We have lost our peace of mind. We have to deal with the disaster called depression quite frequently.

Why are we Depressed?

Psychologically speaking, when we are faced with adverse situations, our mind works hard to handle the situation and preserve its integrity, calling forth all available resources at its disposal. However, if the adversity persists or the situation is an overwhelming one, these resources are soon exhausted and the mind goes spirally into an abyss called depression. 

Biologically, depression can be explained as a function of dysfunctioning brain circuits. There is an imbalance of chemicals (known as neurotransmitters) in specific brain circuits, causing a disruption in their normal functioning. The byproduct of such haywire networking is depression.

Prevention is better than cure

The question we must ask ourselves is how to prevent depression. Following a healthy lifestyle pattern is the key. Learn to respect your biological rhythm. Keep regular meal times and bedtime. Indulge in physical exercise and mentally engaging hobbies on a daily basis. Cut down on internet time and recreational drugs. And take time to rewind and relax, despite your busy schedule.

The Treatment

When faced with a depressive episode, act promptly. Depression has a nasty tendency to spiral out of control rapidly. Find a psychiatrist you will be comfortable visiting on a regular basis and follow his/her advice to the T. You will be put on a combination of medications and psychotherapy.

Depression - Prevent & Cure

Medications

Medications act by regularizing the supply of neurotransmitters in the brain circuits. For proper results, take the medicines on time and without fail. You may feel better after a few days and be tempted to discontinue them. But that is a mistake you will regret heavily. Medications need to be taken at prescribed doses for the entire duration advised by your doctor. Failing to do so invariably causes a relapse. Tamper with the pills at your own risk!

No Self-Medication

There is often a tendency to self-medicate in depression with recreational substances like alcohol and weed. Though widely known for their immediate euphoric effects, in the long run these agents will worsen the depression and might cause additional problems like hallucinations.

Psychotherapy a.k.a. Counselling

One session wonders are not the norm in psychotherapy. Your doctor is no Yoda who can cure depression overnight by pep-talks. Make sure you attend all therapy sessions, which have been scientifically structured to suit the patient’s needs. And do all the home assignments regularly and diligently.

Seek Support and Prioritize Self-Care

If you are having suicidal thoughts, do not keep it to yourself. Share it with your loved ones and your psychiatrist immediately. You will lack the motivation to get out of bed and go about your daily chores. But it is important to eat, sleep and shower on time despite your condition. It hastens the recovery process.

Depression is preventable and treatable. And no, you do not get dependent on medications. But yes, if you discontinue the therapy without your doctor’s advice, a relapse is more likely. Here’s hoping you stay fit and happy always!

drdebasmitapsychiatrist

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