Depression is a mental disorder with multiple symptoms that can affect anyone, at any age. In Switzerland, between 15% and 20% of adults suffer from depression at least once in their lives. The World Health Organisation estimates that by 2030, depression will rank as the most widespread disease. It’s not just a case of feeling down or having the blues, and it’s essential that it be treated. In this article, we help you understand depression, its causes and signs.
What is depression?
Depression is a mental disorder characterised by persistent sadness and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. It affects emotions, thoughts and behaviour, leading to a range of emotional and physical problems. Depressed people may experience difficulty in completing daily tasks, lack of energy, weight changes, sleep disturbances, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and thoughts of death or suicide. Unlike temporary depression, depression is a serious medical condition that requires appropriate treatment to improve quality of life and prevent complications.
It is also important not to overlook what is known as silent depression. Silent depression is a form of depression in which the symptoms are less visible. Sufferers may appear to be functioning normally while struggling internally. They often hide their suffering, which makes diagnosis and treatment more difficult. It is crucial to be alert to subtle signs such as unexplained mood swings, persistent fatigue or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.
What are the symptoms of depression?
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, there are nine major symptoms of depression:
- Depressed mood: you feel sad all the time, even empty, for no real reason.
- Diminished interest: you no longer enjoy the activities you used to love. You feel bored and unmotivated.
- Weight change: you’ve lost or gained weight rapidly. You don’t feel like eating, or on the contrary, you eat a lot to feel pleasure.
- Sleep time: you can’t fall asleep, or sleep at all, often because your thoughts are exacerbated by depression. Or you sleep a lot. Sleep allows you to avoid painful reality.
- Fatigue: whether you sleep a lot or not at all, you always feel tired.
- You feel guilty or devalue yourself: you have no self-confidence, you put yourself down a lot or you feel a sense of guilt that you can’t necessarily explain.
- Indecision: decision-making is difficult for you and you find it hard to concentrate.
- Dark thoughts: You sometimes think about death or suicide, or even imagine a suicidal scenario.
Depression and suicide
People suffering from depression are likely to have dark thoughts, to think about death and suicide. In fact, 70% of people who commit suicide suffer from depression. If this is the case for you, there are hotlines or chat rooms in Switzerland where you can get in touch with counsellors or volunteers. Then don’t keep it to yourself. Whether it’s by telephone or anonymous chat, to a relative or friend, it’s important to talk about it.
Obviously, everyone reacts differently. You may experience all the symptoms of depression, or just some of them. There are also other consequences of the illness, such as fear of the future, a feeling of failure, a need for isolation or a lack of libido.
Factors in depression
There is no single cause of depression. It can occur for no apparent reason, or following difficult events such as bereavement, divorce or the loss of a job. Genetic factors, chemical imbalances in the brain and chronic stress can also contribute to its onset.
If you think you are suffering from depression, it is important to consult a health professional, whether a psychologist or a psychiatrist. In fact, many healthcare professionals offer psychological support for depression, including post-partum depression.
Depression is an illness that chemically alters your brain. The way your moods are regulated by neurotransmitters changes. The secretion of serotonin (which helps you fall asleep), noradrenaline (which gives you a boost in the morning) and dopamine (which allows you to feel pleasure) is reduced. What’s more, you may be genetically predisposed: unfortunately, you are more likely to suffer from depression if one of your parents is prone to it. However, we do not yet understand exactly why the genetic factor increases the risk. Whatever the cause, several studies have shown that there is indeed a correlation between genes and depression.
In any case, there is no more or less valid reason for suffering from depression. You are legitimate and you have no need to feel guilty because you suffer from this illness. If you recognise certain symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor or psychologist who will be able to guide you. And even if it’s only temporary, it can always do you good to talk to a health professional. 🧡
How is depression treated?
If you are ill, it can be difficult to take the first step of seeking help. It’s important, however, because by seeking help you can slow the downward spiral. You will also be able to understand the cause(s) of your depression. There are several strategies for recovery:
- Psychotherapy allows you to talk to a mental health professional, learn about the illness and, above all, help yourself. It is always prescribed in cases of proven depression and can be combined with other treatments. Psychotherapy is tailored to the individual, and it’s very important to find someone you feel comfortable talking to.
- Taking antidepressants helps to stabilise your moods and regulate hormones (the famous neurotransmitters). Depending on the type of antidepressant you are taking, you may experience some side-effects, but your doctor will be able to guide you towards the one that is best for you. In general, a slight improvement can be seen in the first two weeks. However, antidepressants are taken over the long term, and their effects will be truly visible after 6 to 12 weeks. You can also change your treatment if it’s not working for you. Stopping treatment is a gradual process, often taking 2 to 3 months.
- Complementary therapies. Other approaches to the disease often help to improve the situation somewhat. These may include light therapy, massage, acupuncture, Tai Chi, etc. They will help you reconnect with your body and experience sensations that will lead to a feeling of well-being.
Since depression is an illness that sets in slowly, it also takes time to heal. What’s more, relapses are possible, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get better! If you feel that your treatment is no longer effective, talk to your doctor. He’s the only one who will be able to adapt your therapy to your situation.
How long does it take to recover from depression?
Depression is an illness that sets in slowly, and its recovery also takes time. On average, the effects of treatments such as antidepressants can be seen after 6 to 12 weeks. Psychotherapy and complementary therapies can also take several months before showing significant results. Relapses are possible, but this does not mean that recovery is impossible. It is essential to follow the prescribed treatment and to consult a health professional regularly to adjust the therapy if necessary.
How do you support a relative suffering from depression?
Supporting a depressed loved one can be a major emotional and mental challenge.
Here are some tips on how to provide effective support while taking care of yourself:
- Listening and empathy: The first step in helping a depressed loved one is to listen without judgement. Let them express their feelings and thoughts, even if they seem negative or irrational. Show them that you understand and that you’re there for them.
- Avoid minimising: Avoid minimising his feelings or telling him to ‘pull himself together’. Depression is a real illness that cannot be overcome by willpower alone. Recognising the seriousness of the situation is crucial.
- Encourage them to seek help: Encourage your loved one to consult a mental health professional, such as a doctor or psychologist. Offer to go with them to their appointments if that would reassure them.
- Offer practical support: Sometimes everyday tasks can seem insurmountable for someone with depression. Offer to help with the shopping, household chores or simply to keep them company.
- Take care of yourself: It’s essential not to forget yourself in the process. Supporting someone with depression can be exhausting. Make sure you take time for yourself, get some rest and talk to someone about your own feelings.
- Education and patience: Educate yourself about depression to better understand what your loved one is going through. Be patient, as recovery can take time and involve ups and downs.
- Encourage positive activities: If your loved one feels able, encourage them to take part in activities they used to enjoy or to try new things. Physical exercise, creative hobbies or going outdoors can have a beneficial effect on mood.
- Watch for danger signs: Watch for signs of suicidal thoughts or self-harm. If you are worried about your loved one’s safety, contact a healthcare professional or the emergency services immediately.
Caring for a depressed loved one requires compassion, patience and constant support. Your role can make a big difference to their recovery.
Useful Links
- Hotline for adults: La Main Tendue
- List of Helplines in Switzerland: Find a Helpline
