Though the mild form of depression is common among men and women, not many might be aware that they are affected by this condition. This article provides you some information about its causes, symptoms, and treatment.
The term ‘depression’ is often used to explain the feeling of sadness due to certain situations like failing an exam, having a row with a closed friend, losing a job, etc. However, the feeling of sadness cannot be exactly called the same, as it would disappear in a day or two. However, for some, the feeling of sorrow might remain for a long time, so much so that it affects their daily life, and activities. When such a situation arises, the person is said to have this psychological condition. It can be further divided into three forms: mild, moderate, and severe. Among the three, moderate, and severe forms are more common. Though people affected by the mild form might not even know that they are affected, it is a common condition that affects many people. As many people might be unaware about it, they might not be able to recognize the signs that indicate that a person is affected by the milder form. Though it is not as serious as the other two forms, it can progress to the severe form in the absence of treatment. Therefore, it becomes important for people to know what exactly happens in the mild form, and also the ways in which one can treat this condition.
Symptoms
The causes of this mental condition are not different from the other forms. The difference is only in the impact that the situation has on that person. Hence, the focus is on the symptoms that can be observed. The following are some of its symptoms:
Reduced Concentration
The person may feel quite low, but still may continue with his daily household chores or work-related activities. However, he may have some difficulty in getting them done. Individuals who are affected by this condition, experience lack of concentration, or reduced ability to think, which hampers their ability to perform these activities.
Fatigue and Sleeplessness
Fatigue is another symptom that affects these individuals. They might feel less energized, even after sleeping for a long time. This may happen because this mental condition brings with it sleepless nights, or insomnia. Such people find it difficult to sleep, even after a long and tiring day, and sometimes wake up from their sleep in the middle of the night.
Physical Problems
The affected individuals might experience headache, backache, etc. Often, people go to the doctor, to find a solution for their pain, however, no concrete cause is found out. In such cases, mild depression is one of the reasons that cause such kind of body ache. Apart from this, the affected person may lose interest in sex. Change in eating habits is also one of the common symptoms. Some people may lose their appetite totally, or may eat too much.
Loss of Interest
Another sign of this mental condition is loss of interest in any kind of activity. It is quite commonly observed that people are no longer enthusiastic about indulging in activities that they used to love earlier. This includes taking part in some kind of sports, activities, or may be pursuing one of their hobbies. Some people may also feel uncomfortable meeting people, and this may affect their social life.
Feeling of Guilt and Worthlessness
People suffering from this metal condition, may experience the feeling of guilt, and worthlessness, as they are unable to perform their daily tasks, and activities. They may feel frustrated the whole time, and due to this are likely to cry, or may experience anger bouts without any specific reason. This feeling of ineptitude may also trigger the thoughts of ending their life by committing suicide.
Treatment
If you, or your loved one, is experiencing any of these symptoms, seeking medical help for treatment is extremely important for preventing the progression of depression from the mild to a severe form. This condition can be treated with psychotherapy. The following are some remedies that might prove beneficial.
Exercise Program
Sometimes, indulging in a simple exercise might help to some extent. Usually, the person is asked to indulge in some aerobic exercises like brisk walking, vigorous sports activity, swimming, jogging, dancing, etc. Other than this, some individuals may also have to undergo formal exercise programs with the doctor, which may consist of several sessions for 10 – 12 weeks.
Specific Counseling
Specific counseling works for people who are feeling depressed for some specific reason. For instance, if the reason is something like marital problems, abuse, death of a loved one, sexual problems, etc., sessions with a psychologist can help one deal with the underlying cause.
Talking Treatment
The talking treatment is quite different from the counseling sessions. Here, the person will be asked to talk about his feelings to the doctor, or sometimes to a close friend or family member. Sometimes, the person starts feeling better just by sharing his feelings, and thoughts, with a trustworthy person. Apart from this, there are also several self-help programs, which could help in curing this mental condition.
Medications
The use of medications, especially antidepressants is quite common, when it comes to the treatment of the moderate or serious forms of depression. However, drugs are rarely prescribed. Even though doctors do not prescribe antidepressant medications normally, in certain cases, these may be recommended. This happens when the other treatment measures are not effective in curing it, or if the person has had the problem of the moderate or severe type in the past.
It is very important to know that mild form of this mental condition should not be taken lightly. The concerned doctor should be consulted immediately, so as to prevent, the occurrence of something more serious.
Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for the advice of a mental health expert.