Depression - Is this real?

What is Depression?

Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, and various cognitive and physical symptoms that significantly impact daily life. It affects thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, sometimes leading to serious functional impairment.

DSM-5 Criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) requires five or more of the following symptoms for at least two weeks, with at least one being either depressed mood or loss of interest/pleasure (anhedonia):

1. Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day

2. Loss of interest or pleasure in almost all activities

3. Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in appetite

4. Insomnia or hypersomnia (sleeping too much or too little)

5. Psychomotor agitation or retardation (feeling restless or slowed down)

6. Fatigue or loss of energy

7. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt

8. Difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions

9. Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

To be diagnosed, these symptoms must:

✔️ Cause significant distress or impair daily functioning

✔️ Not be caused by substance use or another medical condition

Causes of Depression

Depression is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Some key causes include:

1. Biological Causes

• Genetics – Family history increases risk

• Brain Chemistry Imbalance – Low levels of serotonin, dopamine, or norepinephrine

• Hormonal Changes – Thyroid disorders, pregnancy, menopause, or chronic stress

• Chronic Illnesses – Diabetes, heart disease, cancer, chronic pain

2. Psychological Causes

• Trauma or Abuse – Childhood trauma, neglect, or domestic violence

• Negative Thought Patterns – Self-criticism, overthinking, or perfectionism

• Low Self-Esteem – Feeling unworthy or incapable

3. Social & Environmental Causes

• Major Life Changes – Job loss, divorce, loss of a loved one

• Loneliness or Social Isolation

• Financial Stress or Work Pressure

Types of Depression

1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) – Persistent and severe symptoms affecting daily life

2. Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) – Milder, long-term depression (2+ years)

3. Bipolar Depression – Depression episodes alternating with mania/hypomania

4. Postpartum Depression – Depression after childbirth

5. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – Depression related to seasonal changes

6. Atypical Depression – Mood reactivity, increased appetite, excessive sleep

What To Do?

If you are experiencing depression, here are some steps to take:

Mild to Moderate Depression:

✔️ Self-care Strategies:

• Engage in physical activity (exercise releases endorphins)

• Eat a balanced diet (avoid excessive sugar, caffeine, and processed foods)

• Prioritize sleep (establish a sleep routine)

• Practice mindfulness and meditation

• Express emotions (through journaling, art, or talking to someone)

✔️ Social Support:

• Reach out to friends and family

• Join support groups

• Engage in social activities

✔️ Therapy:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps change negative thought patterns

• Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Helps manage stress and emotions

• Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores past traumas and emotional conflicts

✔️ Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Set small goals and celebrate progress

• Break tasks into manageable steps

• Avoid alcohol and drugs

How Can SEVEE Help?

At SEVEE, we understand that depression is not just about sadness—it’s about feeling stuck and disconnected from yourself and the world. We offer:

✔️ One-on-One Online Counseling: Personalized sessions with trained psychologists who listen and guide you toward healing.

✔️ CBT & Mindfulness-Based Interventions: To help manage negative thinking and build emotional resilience.

✔️ Relationship & Breakup Support: Helping you navigate emotional struggles in relationships.

✔️ Stress & Anxiety Management: Tools to cope with daily stress and overthinking.

✔️ Confidential & Culturally Sensitive Support: We understand Indian and NRI clients' needs.

✔️ Psychiatrist Consultation (if needed): For expert advice on severe cases (no online prescriptions).

Book a session at www.sevee.care or call +91 9712777330 for support. You don’t have to go through this alone. SEVEE is here to help.

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Depression & Mood Disorder Checklist (This is for educational purpose and not for diagnostic purpose, it is advised to see a professional if you are experiencing something that is difficult for you to deal with.)

Category	Mood	Energy Levels	Cognition & Focus	Behavioral Changes	Sleep Patterns	Treatment Options
Mild Depression	Low mood, occasional sadness	Slight fatigue, but manageable	Mild difficulty concentrating	Social withdrawal, minor motivation loss	Slight changes in sleep	Self-help, therapy, lifestyle changes
Moderate Depression	Persistent sadness, loss of interest	Noticeable fatigue, daily tasks feel harder	Frequent distraction, brain fog	Reduced social activity, lack of motivation	Insomnia or hypersomnia	Therapy, possible medication
Severe Depression	Extreme sadness, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts	Severe exhaustion, struggle to function	Severe difficulty thinking or making decisions	Complete withdrawal, inability to function	Severe sleep disturbances	Urgent medical attention, therapy, medication
Manic Episode	Euphoric, irritable, overly confident	Excessive energy, no need for sleep	Racing thoughts, easily distracted	Impulsive actions, risky behaviors	Little to no sleep without feeling tired	Psychiatric evaluation, mood stabilizers
Hypomanic Episode	Elevated mood, increased energy	Increased energy, reduced need for sleep	Sharp focus on ideas but impulsive	Increased socializing, impulsivity	Decreased need for sleep	Therapy, mood tracking, medication if needed