Will I be depressed forever?
When you’re in a depressive spiral, it’s hard to imagine ever feeling even just “okay” again. For all the studies and research on depression, it’s still a relatively murky area. This is primarily because every person is different, and while we all may have some characteristics in common, we can’t definitely say that depression can be cured – or conversely that you will be depressed throughout your life.
The complex condition
Depression is a confusing condition. One day you may feel better and think, “Great! It’s over!” These feelings are real, but it’s worth knowing that there is no cure for depression. So, you may have wonderful and amazing days, but you may also fall into a depression again in a few weeks.
One of the biggest myths about depression is that you can “snap out of it”. Not true at all. You don’t need a reason to be depressed. You will know depression by its common symptoms: loss of interest in everyday activities, a pervasive feeling of sadness, anxiety at times, sometimes paranoia and a general listlessness.
Why can’t it be cured?
Curing a disease means it will never affect you again. For now, medical experts haven’t cracked the code on depression. There are many types of depression, and varying symptoms and differences. One person’s experience of depression may not be the same as another’s.
Depression is a mental disorder, and anything that deals with the brain chemistry is difficult to comprehend. Some types tend to linger longer than others. For example, seasonal affective disorder is associated with winter, while persistent depressive disorder or clinical depression are longer lasting (usually years).
Adding to the complicated nature of depression are the causes. What caused the initial depression may have been significant or simply a temporary stressor. If it was a momentary setback or challenge that you’ve managed to process and move beyond, the depression may subside. A more significant stressor like losing a loved one or going through a divorce could trigger a longer-lasting depression.
Depression is treatable though, which means that with lifestyle changes, help through support groups, therapy and medication, you can live a healthy life.
Help at hand
Medications have been created specifically to help treat the symptoms of depression. As soon as you have been diagnosed, your doctor may prescribe certain medications. It’s important to take these exactly as directed. It’s tempting to stop for a day or two “when you feel better”, but stick to your daily medication routine.
Antidepressants work by changing the brain's chemistry, but only for as long as you’re taking them. They do not fix the underlying causes of depression. Speak to your doctor about support groups, therapy or counselling. There are so many avenues of help out there, you don’t need to suffer in silence. Do yourself and your health a big favour and take that first step today.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.