Depression: How it is treated by a psychologist in Lahore?

Depression is a major depressive disorder. The disorder is a common and serious illness that negatively affects feelings, thinking, and behavior. Luckily, it is also treatable. Depression can make a person feel sad or lose interest in activities that used to bring them joy. This can lead to a range of emotional and physical problems.

One of the well-known experts in this field is Dr. Zahid, a psychiatrist, and psychologist in Lahore, Pakistan. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the condition, Dr. Zahid or Lahore Psychiatrist Hospital is well-equipped to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Types of depression

Major depression

People with severe depression feel sad all the time. They may lose interest in activities that used to be enjoyable.

Dysthymia

Dysthymia can last for years and interfere with daily life, work, and relationships. People with this disorder often find it challenging to feel happy even on a good day and may appear depressed, pessimistic, or sad when they have a chronic mental illness. Dysthymia can change over time and the intensity of symptoms can vary, but they usually resolve within two months.

Seasonal affective disorder

A type of depression related to changing seasons is called Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD symptoms begin and end at the same time of year. For many people, symptoms start in autumn and continue throughout the winter, but SAD can also appear in spring or summer. In any case, symptoms of depression, such as hopelessness, fatigue, and loss of interest or pleasure, start easily and get worse over time. Psychologist in Lahore helps people with the treatment of this disorder.

Atypical depression

Despite its name, atypical depression is one of the most common forms of depression. Atypical depression is different from persistent feelings of regret and sorrow. It is considered a specific type or subtype of major depressive disorder and is characterized by depressive symptoms such as binge eating, irritability, heaviness in the limbs, sensitivity to rejection, and relationship problems.

Causes of depression

The exact cause of depression is unknown. As with other mental disorders, several factors may be involved, such as.

Biological differences

People with depression experience physical changes in their brains. The significance of these changes is unknown, but they may help identify the cause.

Brain chemicals

Neurotransmitters are natural brain chemicals that may be involved in depression. Recent research suggests that changes in the function and role of these neurotransmitters and their interaction with neural circuits involved in maintaining mood stability may be important in depression and its treatment.

Hormonal changes

Changes in the balance of hormones in the body can cause or contribute to depression. Hormonal changes can occur during pregnancy, in the weeks and months after childbirth, as a result of thyroid disorders, menopause, and various other conditions.

Hereditary traits

Depression is more common in relatives. Researchers are trying to identify genes that may be linked to depression.

Symptoms

A person suffering from depression may have the following symptoms:

• Sad or depressed
• Loss of interest or enjoyment in activities that used to bring you pleasure
• Change in appetite – non-food related weight loss or weight gain
•  Inability to sleep or sleeping too much
• The feeling of loss of energy or increased tiredness
• Increased aimless physical activity (e.g. inability to sit still, cross your legs, flail your arms) or slower movements or talking (these activities must be intense enough to be noticed by others)
• Feelings of guilt                                                                    
• Difficulty in thinking, making decisions, or concentrating
• Thoughts of suicide

Risk factors

The following factors can increase the risk of developing or triggering depression

• Certain personality characteristics like low level of self-esteem, over-dependence, self-criticism, or pessimism
• Shocking or upsetting events like physical or sexual abuse, death or loss of a loved one, difficult relationships, or financial problems
• Relative suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, alcoholism, or suicide
• Being in an inappropriate environment due to being lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or transsexual (intersex)
• Having an anxiety disorder, eating disorder, or other mental health problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder
• Abuse of alcohol or drugs
• A serious or chronic medical condition, such as cancer, stroke, chronic pain, or heart disease
• Certain medications, such as high blood pressure medications or sleep medications (check with your doctor before discontinuing)

Treatment by a psychologist in Lahore

Most people with depression are effectively helped by medication and psychotherapy. Psychiatrists may prescribe medication to relieve symptoms. However, many people with depression can also get help from a psychologist or other mental health professional.

Conclusion

Depression is a severe mental health condition that can have a major impact on a person’s ability to function in their daily life. However, with the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage the condition’s symptoms and lead a fulfilling life. If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, it’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional, such as Dr. Zahid, a psychiatrist, and psychologist in Lahore.