Depression affects multiple aspects of daily functioning through biological and environmental factors, but evidence-based therapeutic interventions, including virtual counseling and structured self-care strategies, can help individuals effectively manage symptoms and work toward improved mental well-being.
Ever feel like your world has lost its color? Depression can make even the simplest days feel overwhelming, but understanding its complexities and treatment options can light the path forward to reclaiming your well-being.
Is Depression Considered A Disease? Understanding The Facts
Depression can feel overwhelming. However, understanding what it is, how it occurs and different supplementary strategies available for treatment can empower those living with this affective disorder to seek a higher quality of life.
Below, we summarize what you need to know about depression. We’ll also be exploring the role that virtual therapy with a mental health professional can play in recovery and depression support.
Definition and causes of depression
Depression is generally believed to be a complex mental health disorder that may affect many aspects of an individual’s functioning and state of mind. People who have been diagnosed with depression may feel intense sadness, lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed, struggle in making decisions, have changes in sleep patterns or appetite and can struggle to concentrate or feel motivated.
Depression can be challenging to diagnose due to its wide range of symptoms. With proper care and treatment, however, individuals may have the ability to manage depressive symptoms and work towards living more satisfying lives. Understanding the possible causes of depression can be a strong first step to healing for some.
There are generally many potential causes of depression—including biological, environmental and psychological factors.
Biologically, depression may be caused by imbalances in the brain’s chemical signals or a family history of the disorder. Environmental factors such as stress, trauma or a lack of social support may also contribute to the development of depression. Psychological factors such as negative thinking patterns or a history of mental health conditions can also play a role for some.
If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please reach out to a mental health professional for resources.
While everyone’s experience with depression is generally unique, it can be important to remember that it is currently believed to be treatable with proper care and support.
The debate on depression’s nature
The debate on the nature of depression is ongoing. Some experts may view major depressive disorder as a disease, and others generally view it as a symptom. Those who view depression as a disease might argue that it can result from an imbalance in the brain’s chemical signals or genetics, and requires medical treatment to be appropriately managed.
On the other hand, those who view depression as a symptom might believe that it results from environmental or psychological risk factors—such as stress or negative thinking patterns, and may be more effectively treated with therapy or self-care strategies.
We do want to note that both viewpoints generally have valid points, and that the true nature of major depressive disorder may be a combination of biological and environmental/psychological factors. It is also thought by many to be rooted in a patient’s individual experience.
Scientifically supported self-care strategies to help those living with depression
Self-care generally refers to individuals’ actions taken to maintain their physical, mental and emotional health. It can be a key part of managing depression and helping to prevent the recurrence of symptoms.
Below are a few self-care strategies for individuals who experience depression:
Exercise: Regular physical activity has been clinically suggested to improve mood and reduce the risk of depression. It can be as simple as walking or participating in a structured exercise program—or whatever else feels doable to the person experiencing depression.
Sleep: Getting enough sleep can be helpful in managing depression-related symptoms and improving your overall health. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can be a helpful step if you are experiencing trouble sleeping as a result of depression.
Diet: A healthy, well-balanced diet may support physical and mental health, and can impact the symptomatic manifestation of depression. This includes consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as well as following personalized dietary advice from a trusted physician or dietician.