Causes of chronic depression

Many people experience depression in response to a loss or sad event which in most cases usually lasts for six to nine months. However, when they are long lasting and the symptoms disappear for a short period and return again, it is termed chronic depression. It has the potential to hasten a severe disruption among a person’s overall functioning that is both significant, and long lasting.

The major causes of this illness are often not known. Factors that are known to contribute heredity, a chemical imbalance of the brain, and stress. People who have family members with any type of depressive disorder are more likely to also experience the condition. Studies have revealed a complex system of neurotransmitters that produce chemicals that transfer signals from nerve cell to nerve cell.

Sufferers may have little motivation to change toward something they've never felt. It can cause anxiety, guilt, and frustration in people. This illness usually begins gradually, with vague feelings of sadness that gradually build in intensity. The person may experience insomnia, changes in eating habits, sense of hopelessness, general lethargy, restlessness, decreased sex drive, feelings of guilt, difficulty concentrating and even suicidal tendencies.

Drugs that correct neurotransmitter imbalances are very effective. It is commonly treated with a combination of drug and psychotherapy. Non invasive therapies help to resolve any personal issues that may have caused the depression. Some of the antidepressant drugs are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, fluoxetine and sertraline. These drugs are very effective in treating chronic depression because they increase serotonin levels, which contributes to a feeling of well-being.

The physician decides which medication is best after studying the medical history and evaluating the risks of negative side effects. It can be anything from two to six weeks before the effects of the medication is felt. Remember these drugs are not addictive, and generally unless the person is severely affected or unable to take care of oneself medications may not be a necessity.

Just as in the case of antidepressants, there are also different types of psychotherapy which again will have to be determined by the doctor. Electroconvulsive therapy is only used in cases where medication and psychotherapy have not worked.

Also read our article about Stress and Depression