Editor’s Note: here at KetamineNews, we cover news and topics related to ketamine treatment and the broader field of mental health in general. Our word should not be taken over the advice of mental health professionals. If you’re struggling with depression, talk to a professional or reach out to the National Helpline – 1-800-487-4889. There is no shame in admitting you need help, and you are worth it.
What is depression?
Exactly what someone means when they say “depression” is not always clear.
According to Merriam-Webster, a depression is “a period of low general economic activity marked especially by rising levels of unemployment.”
It is also “a state of feeling sad.”
It can also mean a physical force, a “pressing down”.
If you’re on this site, however, you’re likely looking for clinical depression: “a mood disorder marked especially by sadness, inactivity, difficulty in thinking and concentration, a significant increase or decrease in appetite and time spent sleeping, feelings of dejection and hopelessness, and sometimes suicidal tendencies.”
Unfortunately, the difference between all these definitions is a big one. And it can be difficult for even trained medical professionals to identify the difference between a depressed mood and clinical depression.
What are the symptoms of depression?
Symptoms are wide-ranging and vary from person to person, but generally the symptoms include:
- Trouble concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
- Fatigue
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness
- Pessimism and hopelessness
- Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or sleeping too much
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Loss of interest in things once pleasurable, including sex
- Overeating, or appetite loss
- Aches, pains, headaches, or cramps that won’t go away
- Digestive problems that don’t get better, even with treatment
- Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
How is depression diagnosed?
Unlike physical conditions or illnesses, there is no real depression treatment. Instead, you’ll have to set up an appointment with a healthcare professional who will go over your symptoms and your past history with mental health conditions.
From here, it is more or less trial and error. Over time, you will come to understand your condition more and find out new ways to treat it.
Can depression be cured?
This one’s a short answer: no. Relief can be found and remission can be achieved, but there is no surefire way to get rid of depression forever.
How is depression treated?
Medications like antidepressants are often used, but these do not work for everyone and sometimes carry painful unwanted side effects.
Many people find relief with long-term solutions like therapy.
New treatment options like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and IV ketamine infusions are paving the way for a new era of depression treatment.
What are the kinds of depressive disorders?
Sit tight, because this one’s a long one.
- Major depressive disorder/clinical depression
- Dysthymia (persistent depressive disorder)
- Manic depression (bipolar disorder)
- Postpartum depression
- Seasonal affective disorder
- Psychotic depression
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- Atypical depression
Are depression rates increasing?
Amongst teens, certainly. Amongst everyone else, debatably.
Is depression genetic?
To a certain extent, yes.
Final Thoughts
With any medication or treatment option, you should always consult your primary care physician or a licensed practitioner on any questions you have about your overall care or an innovative new treatment like ketamine. If you’re interested in learning more about the clinical use of ketamine, we would encourage you to do your own research or reach out to trusted healthcare providers in your area. You can also consult free resources like Ketamine Directory to find care near you.
The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained on or available through this website is for general information purposes only.
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