Dr Sreystha Beppari, Consultant Psychologist, Apollo Clinic, Pune talks about chronic depression and ways to manage it
You might have noticed either among your friends or loved ones that they are often in a low mood. You would have tried to elevate their energy from time to time to lift their spirits. But despite your best efforts, this behaviour may persist for long periods. These are one of the signs of chronic depression.
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) also known as chronic depression or dysthymia is a form of depression that lasts for long. It may be less serious as compared to major depressive disorder (MDD), but it still has far-reaching consequences on the daily life, relationships, and general well-being of an individual. For effective management of this condition, it is important to recognise the signs early and seek appropriate treatment.
Recognising the signs of chronic depression
Chronic depression often manifests through a combination of emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms. While these signs can vary from person to person, some common indicators include:
Persistent low mood: A constant feeling of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness lasting for two years or longer can be one of the symptoms of this condition. Although this mood is often less severe than in major depression, it is more persistent and spread out over time.
Fatigue and low energy: People suffering from this condition usually feel worn out despite resting enough. Consequently, this constant tiredness can lead to lowered drive for daily activities, making them hard and tiresome for such people.
Difficulty concentrating: Cognitive faculties may often be subjected to insidious depression which hampers one’s ability to concentrate. This can also lead to one not being able make sound decisions as well as remember trivial facts. Such tendencies can hinder one’s job output or even interfere with their everyday life routine.
Sleep disturbances: In the case of persistent depression, problems related to sleep are not unusual. Some people may suffer from insomnia disorders that make it difficult for them to initiate or maintain their sleep while others experience hypersomnia that renders them unable to get up in the morning.
Low self-esteem: Feelings wherein a person feels they are worthless or guilty all the time may be persistent. A person can be self-critical, feel inferior, or have difficulty in maintaining an accurate concept about themselves.
Appetite changes: Chronic depression can bring about major shifts in eating behaviour that can either lead to an increase or decrease in weight. Some people prefer to eat too much as a way of coping with their problems while others tend to become disinterested in food altogether.
Irritability or anger: While sadness is one of the well know signs of chronic depression, other persistent emotions might include irritability or anger which is more common in males. This complete devotion can usually pull the strings of a partner’s or associate’s faithfulness and trust.
Social withdrawal: Chronic depression is often accompanied by self-isolation, as it is an illness that makes people avoid social interactions. This loss of interest may make them remove themselves from their friends and family members leading to loneliness.
Approaches to treatment
The first step in seeking assistance is to recognise the symptoms of chronic depression. The management of this condition is usually done through a combination of techniques:
Psychotherapy: Talk therapy or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can play an important role in the management of this condition. Over time, therapy aids individuals in identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and strategies for coping with them to enhance their moods.
Medications: Typically, antidepressants are prescribed to regulate the mood and reduce symptoms of depression. In specific terms, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are common drugs recommended for patients. The exact choice of medication will be made by a healthcare provider according to the patient needs.
Lifestyle modifications: Chronic depression management essentially comprises of physical activity regularly, balanced nutrition, and proper rest. Regular workouts energise not only your body but also enrich your mind which causes the release of endorphins which are natural ‘feel good’ chemicals that enhance moods.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Stress reduction, relaxation, and better health can be achieved through practices like meditation, yoga as well as deep-breathing exercises. Therefore, people can remain mindful and find ways of handling negative thinking concerning persistent depression.
Support systems: A strong support system is very important to manage the condition. The presence of a network of individuals one can rely on can go a long way in addressing long-term depression. This network can include friends, relations, or even support groups.
Consistent follow-up: Chronic depression calls for constant management. This includes watching one’s progress and modifications in their treatments as and when required. It is also important to guarantee that an individual should be able to get support from a healthcare giver.
Conclusion
This condition is tough and can lasts for a long time, but it can be controlled with proper management. If the signs are noticed early enough and a holistic approach followed when treating it, there will be remarkable changes in life’s quality. Therefore, is you have noticed anyone in your life going through a similar condition or if you are affected yourself do not hesitate to contact specialists about it.
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