Sadness is a normal human reaction to something that has happened to you. It goes away after a while. On the other hand, depression is a major mental health concern that persists and can affect your daily functioning.

Depression can look like this:

• Feelings of sadness or low mood for atleast 2 weeks

• Sleeping too much or too little

• Loss of interest in activities you previously enjoyed

• Eating too much or too little

• Irritability

• Lack of energy or lethargy

• Excess anxiety and/or restlessness

• Inability to focus or concentrate

• Recurring thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Depression is a mental health concern that can be treated, like any physical illness. With the right combination of therapy, psychiatry, self-care and social support, people get better. Studies show that a large majority of people with Major Depressive Disorder get better when they receive the right care.

Depression can have a range of different causes, such as:

• Genetics: Studies have shown that depression can be passed down through generations.

• Physical Causes: Sometimes depression from physical causes like hormonal imbalance, thyroid issues, and so on.

• Past Trauma: Undergoing trauma can also result in depression later in life.

• Life Events: Certain life events, like a death, or a loss, can increase the risk for depression.

• Substance Abuse: Abuse of certain substances like alcohol can also cause depression.

Remember, depression is never your fault.

A therapist will help you work on the various psychological aspects of depression, like intrusive thoughts, past trauma, grief, and so on. On the other hand, the psychiatrist will help you work on the various physical aspects of depression, like hormonal imbalances, sleeplessness, anxiety, and so on.

Self-care includes all the steps you can take to help yourself in your mental health journey. This includes mindfulness, self-love, and so on.

Generally, the best possible outcomes from treatment arise when therapy, self-care and psychiatry work together as they are all complementary to one another.

Depression, or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is a serious condition that can affect behaviour, mood and daily life. It’s characterised by a persistent sadness, emptiness or irritability lasting at least two weeks. Loss of interest and pleasure in activities, decreased energy levels, and increased fatigue (even with minimal exertion) are some other clear symptoms of MDD.

While not always preventable, you can reduce your risk of depression by prioritising self-care, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits (regular exercise, balanced diet, sufficient sleep), building strong social connections, managing stress effectively, practising mindfulness, and seeking professional help early if symptoms emerge.

Yes, many people with depression can live full and meaningful lives, especially with appropriate treatment and support. While managing the condition can be a lifelong process, effective therapy, medication, lifestyle adjustments, and strong support systems enable individuals to achieve stability and pursue their goals.

Counselling for depression (also known as psychotherapy or talk therapy) involves working with a trained mental health professional to explore the thoughts, feelings, and behaviours associated with depression. It helps individuals develop coping strategies, process emotions, improve problem-solving skills, and address underlying issues contributing to their depression.

Yes, numerous studies and clinical experiences indicate that online therapy can be effective for treating depression. It offers convenient access to licensed therapists, often using evidence-based approaches like CBT and DBT, which are proven to help manage depressive symptoms.