Moderate depression: why you can’t turn a blind eye to it too

Did you know that depression comes in many forms and in varying degrees of severity? Today we will talk about such a thing as moderate depression – about its symptoms and methods of treatment.

Moderate depression is…?

Depression is seasonal, chronic, bipolar, and can also be classified by severity (mild, moderate, severe). This characteristic is commonly used in the diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder.

Unlike mild depression, moderate depression already creates difficulties for a normal life. And the danger is that it can quickly move to the next stage. Therefore, if you notice that something is wrong with your condition, do not close your eyes to it. What's more, studies show that mild depression can be dangerous to your health. Namely, people have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (compared to those with severe depression). Here is such a paradox.

Symptoms

Of course, the diagnosis itself must be made by a doctor. But for some symptoms, you yourself can track the severity of depression in yourself. For example, with moderate, a person is in a bad mood all the time, may feel guilty, and has reduced interest in favorite activities. If people with mild depression can carry out their daily activities, then at the next stage, problems at home and at work are already possible. Due to constant fatigue, irritability and lack of motivation, it can be difficult to focus on projects and make contact with someone.

In people with moderate depression, symptoms can vary in intensity and duration. Some weeks they may experience more symptoms, others less (or almost none). Therefore, they can be harder to track down.

Why does depression occur?

There is no single reason, but there are a number of factors that can affect this. For example, scientists have found that women are more likely to be depressed than men. And hereditary problems with the gastrointestinal tract and certain genes can influence its development. Also, depression is more likely to develop in people whose relatives have already suffered from this disease. But difficult life circumstances can also affect its occurrence.

How to treat?

Specialists can use both therapy alone and in combination with antidepressants. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on identifying negative thoughts that contribute to symptoms of depression. And after identifying them, he tries to replace them with a more positive and realistic way of thinking.

But you can help yourself too. Lifestyle modification has been proven to be a helpful choice for people with mild to moderate symptoms of depression. Although it can be difficult to do something, it is definitely worth a try. For example, studies have shown that exercise can be an effective treatment for mild to moderate depression. And you don't even have to go to the gym all the time. You can replace this activity with walking in the fresh air.

Since stress can contribute to the onset and worsening of mild depression, it is important to try to find ways to reduce it. Meditation, yoga, breathing practices and mindfulness practices will do. It is also important to take care of yourself and your body. Therefore, eat more healthy food and do not alienate those who want to help you. Let it be difficult sometimes.