Depression

Life is not set at one pace; it has many ups and downs. It is entirely normal to feel sad or overwhelmed sometimes, but if these feelings are constant and seem to overshadow every other emotion, then you may have depression.

Depression is a mood disorder where you experience chronic feelings of sadness, emptiness or the inability to feel pleasure.

Major life events such as the death of a loved one or losing your job could trigger depression. Depression, unlike temporary negative feelings, persists despite a change of circumstances and can last for several months or even years.

For some people, depression is like a chronic illness that improves and then relapses.

What causes depression?

As mentioned, depression can be triggered by significant life events, and while this is true, various other factors could combine to cause depressive symptoms. These factors include:

• Genetic factors
• Environmental factors such as trauma or lack of social support
• Changes in the brain's neurotransmitter levels
• Psychological and social factors
• Other mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder

The symptoms of depression

The symptoms of depression include:

• A depressed mood
• Reduced interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Low sexual drive
• Changes in appetite
• Unintentional weight loss or gain
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Restlessness
• Slowed movement or speech
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Recurrent thoughts of suicide or an attempt at suicide

The treatment options for depression

Like any other illness, depression is treatable but requires continuous management because symptoms can reoccur. Managing symptoms usually involves three treatment strategies, these include:

• Support systems
• Psychotherapy
• Drug treatment

At MEC Kalane and Associates, our psychologists will evaluate your symptoms and develop a treatment plan to help you effectively manage your condition.

Anxiety

Anxiety is far more than just feeling worried; it can be debilitating and scary. While stress is considered a normal bodily response to tense situations, anxiety is a disorder that manifests itself as extreme panic and fear. It can reoccur for several months or even years if left untreated.

The types of anxiety disorders

• Generalised Anxiety Disorder: Excessive fear or worry in everyday life.
• Social anxiety: A fear of being judged or ridiculed in social situations.
• Panic disorder: Experiencing repeated anxiety attacks.
• Separation anxiety: Fear of being separated or away from a particular person.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder: PTSD occurs after a traumatic event and can result in various mood disorders.
• Phobia: An uncontrollable and irrational fear of a specific object, activity or situation.

The symptoms of anxiety

The most common symptoms of an anxiety disorder include:

• Increased heart rate
• Intense feelings of stress and nervousness
• Restlessness
• Hyperventilation
• Low energy
• Difficulty sleeping
• Unable to focus

These lesser-known symptoms could also indicate an anxiety disorder:

• Stomach aches
• Scattered thinking
• Impulsivity
• Disorganisation
• Skin picking

The treatment for anxiety

There are two main methods of treatment for anxiety disorders:

Psychotherapy: Therapy will equip you with the correct tools and knowledge to help you identify your triggers and learn to cope with your anxiety in everyday life.

Medication: Medical treatment may be necessary in more severe cases of anxiety. One of our psychiatrists may prescribe sedatives or antidepressants to treat your condition.