Depression is not just the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain that can be simply cured with medication. It is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors, such as your lifestyle choices, relationships, and coping skills.

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Some risk factors could be:

• Loneliness and isolation

• Lack of social support

• Recent stressful life experiences

• Family history of depression

• Marital or relationship problems

• Financial strain

• Early childhood trauma or abuse

• Alcohol or drug abuse

• Unemployment or underemployment

• Health problems or chronic pain

 

Some common symptoms are:

• Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. 

• Loss of interest in daily activities. 

• You’ve lost your ability to feel joy and pleasure.

• Appetite or weight changes. Significant weight loss or weight gain.

• Sleep changes, such as insomnia, especially waking in the early hours of the morning or oversleeping.

• Anger or irritability. Feeling agitated, restless, or even violent. Your tolerance level is low, your temper short, and everything and everyone gets on your nerves.

• Loss of energy. 

• Feeling fatigued, sluggish, and physically drained. 

• Self-loathing. Strong feelings of worthlessness or guilt. You harshly criticize yourself for perceived faults and mistakes.

• Reckless behavior. You engage in escapist behavior such as substance abuse, compulsive gambling, reckless driving, or dangerous sports.

• Trouble focusing, making decisions or remembering things.

• An increase in physical complaints such as headaches, back pain, aching muscles, and stomach pain.

 

Psychotherapy helps to relieve symptoms by having an opportunity to open up and discuss areas of concern you feel may be contributing to your depression symptoms.

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