Modern life is fast-paced and high-stress,
Many people experience enhanced negative emotions, feel melancholic, worry constantly, underestimate their own intellectual abilities, and overestimate the difficulties around them.
These are all manifestations of depression. Depression patients often exhibit cognitive slowness, reduced speech and movement, and decreased will activities. These symptoms are typical manifestations of depressive states in bipolar disorder and are also commonly seen in reactive depression and menopausal depression.
The cause and pathogenesis of depression are still unclear, and there are no obvious physical signs or laboratory indicators. In general, depression is believed to be the result of interactions among biological, psychological, and social (cultural) factors. It is precisely because the etiology of depression is unclear that there are many hypotheses, with common accepted causative hypotheses including:
Moreover, recent studies have shown that excessive introspection and overthinking can lead to severe depression, and these negative emotions can steer you in a negative direction. Sometimes, we often fear causing trouble to others or doubt the quality of our own actions, but excessive worry undermines confidence.
The symptoms of depression include:
1. Persistent low mood, feelings of emptiness, and lack of worth.
People often associate depression with a state of constant sadness and distress, but some individuals with depression more accurately describe feeling empty, devoid of life goals, lacking a sense of worth, and a feeling of giving up on life.
2. Loss of interest in things previously enjoyed.
Most individuals have their own interests and hobbies; individuals with depression also had their interests prior to the onset of depression but may lose interest in them afterward. Reestablishing a depressed individual’s interests and hobbies may help them overcome depression.
3. Increased or decreased appetite, sudden weight changes.
One’s appetite is often influenced by their emotions. Emotional changes can lead to a 5% weight change within a month, excluding deliberate weight gain/loss. However, individuals with depression are generally unaware of this.
4. Sleep disturbances and insomnia.
5. Abnormal behaviors.
Depression patients may exhibit slowed movements, changes in behavior habits, and a disheveled appearance, with suicidal thoughts.
So, how can depression be managed?
1. In the early stages of depression, there may be mild signs, but loved ones often overlook them. Therefore, when friends exhibit negative emotions, it is important to show care. It’s also crucial to not keep negative emotions bottled up inside; talking to loved ones and friends can help.
2. Cultivate interests and hobbies as they can aid in overcoming darkness.
4. Regular exercise, such as sports and running, can help alleviate restlessness and depression.
5. Participating in group activities and constantly affirming oneself through interactions with others.
