What causes Depression (major depressive disorder) and it's Symptoms 

                         OVERVIEW 

Depression is a common yet major mood disorder that affects a person's wellbeing. Depression causes a person to feel extreme sadness, loss of interest, easy irritability in random moments. It affects your behaviour in your day to day activities which in the longterm can be a serious concern, if not  well checked. Simply, it changes how you perceive the world around you. While everyone feels down from time to time, depression is more than just sadness—it’s a persistent and intense feeling that interferes with daily life. It is also commonly known as “major depressive disorder”.

For some people Depression can be short term problem, while for others it's a major issue, which is to be treated with medications or therapy. It's always better to seek professional help if you feel major depression.

                            CAUSES

Research has shown that, it can't be easily known what caused depression in a individual. As there are many other mental disorders. The causes of depression are multifaceted, involving a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Stressful life events, chronic illness, or substance abuse can also trigger or worsen the condition.

Some of the most common causes of depression include:

•     Difference in brain Chemistry: 

                                                                   certain individuals have an imbalance in their neural network or neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine which contribute in the development of depression.

•    Stressful life events:  

                                           Difficult and tragic events that took place in a individual's life such as, the death of a loved one, financial problems, sexual abuse and other traumatic events.

•   Genetical history:  

                                         Having a blood relative like: a parent, or close relative can also make you more prone to having depression in your life.

                  

•.     Hormonal changes: 

                                           Hormones are likely to olay a major part in depression. After pregnancy (postpartum), there are likely increased chances of depression in the coming weeks, it is also caused by thyroid problems and menopause.

•     Substance abuse:

                                Using alcohol or recreational drugs can increase the risk by increasing  the state of loneliness and hopelessness associated with the feeling of depression. Addiction is strongly linked to depression, about 1/3 of people with depression have an alcohol problem.

In short, there is a complexity of array for causes of Depression including biological, genetic, psychological, and environmental influences. Biological causes often involve imbalances in brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. Genetic predisposition plays a role, as individuals with a family history of depression are more likely to develop it. Psychological factors include stress, trauma, or emotional turmoil, which can trigger depressive episodes. Environmental causes, such as ongoing stress, financial problems, or major life changes, also contribute. Additionally, chronic illness, substance abuse, and certain medications can increase the risk of depression.

                              Symptoms 

Now lets talk about symptoms of depression. Normally depression episodes are different than normal mood fluctuations, depressive period lasts an entire day, nearly everyday for atleast two weeks. Symptoms of depression can vary in severity, but common signs include:

•    Persistent sadness or low mood: 

                                                                   Feelings of extreme sadness, loneliness and emotional emptiness.

•    Loss of interest or pleasure: 

                                                             Loss of interest in activities which you liked before such as your hobbies and personal interests.

•    Mood swings: 

                               Being crazily angry on small matters and increased irritation and emotional outbursts 

•     Appetite or weight changes: 

                                                              Weight gain and over increased appetite, or weight loss.

•     Difficulty concentrating:

                                                       Slow movements, fidgeting and speaking.

•     Changes in sleep patterns: 

                                                           Getting insomniac or sleeping too much.

•     Thoughts of death or suicide: 

                                                              Recurrent thoughts and evaluation on suicide and death.

•     physical problems: 

                                             Unexplained back problems and headaches.

•      Feelings of worthlessness or guilt:

                                                                    Feeling worthlessness and guilty even on small matters.

Additionally, These symptoms significantly impact daily functioning and can range from mild to severe. If these signs persist for more than two weeks, it's important to seek professional help from a therapist or a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

                      PREVENTION 

Preventing depression is not always entirely possible, but there are many effective strategies to reduce the risk or lessen its impact. Here’s a detailed overview of prevention techniques:

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:

                                                      Physical health directly influences mental well-being, and a well-rounded lifestyle can help ward off depression. Regular physical exercise is a powerful tool for mood enhancement. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins—natural mood boosters—along with serotonin and dopamine, which are chemicals associated with feeling happy and content. Consuming a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants also helps nourish the brain and regulate mood. Omega-3 fatty acids, for instance, have been linked to reduced symptoms of depression. Moreover, maintaining proper sleep hygiene by establishing a regular sleep schedule helps prevent disruptions in mood and cognitive function. Chronic sleep deprivation, in particular, is a major contributor to emotional instability and stress, which can lead to depression.

Build and Maintain Social Connections:                                                                                                                                                        

                                                                    Strong social networks are critical for emotional health. Feeling connected to others reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation, both of which an be significant contributors to depression. It’s important to nurture relationships with friends, family, or social groups. These relationships can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, helping to mitigate stress and improve mood. Research has shown that individuals who maintain close, supportive relationships are less likely to experience depression. Volunteering or engaging in group activities can also foster social connections and boost self-esteem by giving individuals a sense of purpose.

Manage Stress Effectively: 

                                                 Chronic stress is one of the most common risk factors for depression, making stress management a critical preventive strategy. Mindfulness-based practices, such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises, can help lower cortisol levels and create a state of calm. These activities encourage the mind to focus on the present moment, reducing negative thinking patterns that often contribute to depressive episodes. Time management and setting realistic expectations also play a vital role in reducing stress. Creating a balanced routine with time for relaxation and hobbies can help keep stress in check. Learning to recognize and respond to early signs of stress, such as tension or irritability, can prevent it from escalating into chronic stress or depression.

Avoid Substance Abuse: 

                                             Alcohol and drugs can often act as triggers or exacerbators of depression. While some people may turn to substances as a way to self-medicate, these behaviors can create a cycle of dependency and worsening mental health. Alcohol, in particular, is a depressant and can alter the brain’s chemistry, contributing to feelings of sadness or hopelessness over time. Studies show that individuals who avoid substance abuse or limit their use are less likely to develop depression. Seeking healthier coping mechanisms, such as talking to a friend or counselor or engaging in physical activity, can be much more beneficial for emotional health.

Seek Early Treatment for Mental Health Issues:

             If you begin experiencing signs of depression, anxiety, or mood disturbances, it’s important to seek help early. Early intervention through therapy or counseling can prevent mild symptoms from progressing into a more severe depressive episode. “Cognitive behavioral therapy” (CBT), for instance, can help individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns that may lead to depression. Professional support can also teach coping strategies for managing stress, improving self-esteem, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Furthermore, addressing underlying issues, such as trauma or unresolved emotions, can help mitigate the long-term effects of depression.

By effectively using these methods, individuals can take proactive steps towards mental wellbeing and fighting the onset of early stages of depression and reducing it's symptoms. Always remember mood swings are a part of life but, on the other hand depression is not a mood swing but a disorder that if left untreated can cause problems tomorrow.