What Is Depression? Types, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Depression isn't just having a bad day or feeling a little down. It’s a real mental health condition that effects how you think, feel, and handle daily life. It’s not something you can just "snap out of." But the good news? Depression is treatable and support is within reach.
Table of Contents
- What Is Depression? Understanding This Mental Health Condition
- Types of Depression: From Major to Postpartum
- What Causes Depression? Brain Chemistry, Trauma, and Life Events
- Recognising Symptoms of Depression
- Top Depression Treatment Options
- Finding the Right Help for Depression
- When to Seek Professional Help for Depression
- Answers to Common Depression Questions Canadians Are Asking
- Final Thoughts: Healing from Depression and Ending the Stigma
What Is Depression? Understanding This Mental Health Condition
Depression, clinically known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is when sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in things you once enjoyed last for weeks or even months. It’s like carrying a heavy mental and emotional weight that drains your energy and motivation, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming.
Scientists have found that depression is linked to changes in brain function. Some parts of the brain that help control emotions like the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex, work differently in people with depression. Also, certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, play a big role in mood regulation.
What Is Serotonin and Why Does It Matter?
Serotonin is like the brain’s "feel-good messenger 🙂." It helps regulate mood, sleep, and even digestion! When serotonin levels are too low, it can make you feel down, anxious, and exhausted. Think of it like Wi-Fi for your brain. When the signal is strong, everything runs smoothly. When it’s weak or disconnected, things stop working as they should.
What Is Dopamine?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in motivation, pleasure, and reward. Think of it like a reward system 🏆in your brain. When you accomplish something, your brain releases dopamine, making you feel good and encouraging you to repeat the behaviour. In people with depression, dopamine levels can be too low, which can lead to a lack of interest, motivation, energy and pleasure.
What Is Norepinephrine
Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter and hormone that plays a major role in alertness, focus, and the body’s response to stress. Think of it like your brain’s “wake-up and pay attention” ⏰ signal; it helps you stay alert and respond to challenges. When norepinephrine levels are too low, it can contribute to low energy, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, low mood, increased stress.
Types of Depression: From Major to Postpartum
Depression comes in different forms, including:
Major Depressive Disorder: Intense episodes of depression lasting at least two weeks, affecting daily life.
Persistent Depressive Disorder: A long-term, lower-level depression that lasts for years.
Bipolar Disorder: Alternating periods of depression and high-energy moods (mania or hypomania).
Seasonal Affective Disorder: Depression that comes and goes with the seasons, often worse in winter.
Postpartum Depression: Depression that happens after childbirth, often due to hormonal changes and the stress of new parenthood.
What Causes Depression? Brain Chemistry, Trauma, and Life Events
Great question! But the answer is not a simple one because depression is not caused by just one thing. It’s a mix of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
Biological Factors
Brain Chemistry: An imbalance in neurotransmitters (like serotonin) can impact mood regulation.
Chronic Stress: Stress is only meant to be experienced for short periods of time. When stress is prolonged it can keep your body’s stress hormone, cortisol, too high, which can effect brain function over time.
Genetics: If depression runs in your family, you may be more likely to experience it.
Hormonal Changes: Life events like pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid issues can trigger depression.
Psychological Causes
Negative Thinking Patterns: Constant self-criticism or dwelling on past mistakes can increase the risk of depression.
Personality Traits: Perfectionism, low self-esteem, and high levels of self-doubt can make someone more vulnerable.
Past Trauma: Childhood abuse, neglect, or loss of a loved one can leave lasting effects on mental health.
Environmental and Social Factors
Chronic Stress: Money problems, work stress, or relationship struggles can contribute to depression.
Social Isolation: Feeling alone or lacking a strong support system can make depression worse.
Substance Use: Alcohol and drugs can both cause and worsen depression symptoms.
Recognising Symptoms of Depression
Photo by Micheile Henderson
Emotional Symptoms of Depression
Constant sadness or feeling "empty."
Irritability or frustration over small things.
Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy.
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness.
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Physical Symptoms of Depression
Always feeling tired, even after sleeping.
Changes in appetite and weight.
Sleeping too much or not enough.
Unexplained aches and pains.
Cognitive and Behavioural Symptoms of Depression
Trouble concentrating or making decisions.
Moving or thinking more slowly than usual.
Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities.
Top Depression Treatment Options
Therapy (Talk Therapy)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps you identify and change negative thought patterns.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and social interactions.
Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores past experiences that might be affecting your current emotions.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Combines therapy with meditation to increase self-awareness.
Medication
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Help to address serotonin levels. Some common medications you may have heard of are Prozac and Zoloft.
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): These medications target both serotonin and norepinephrine. Commonly prescribed medications of this category are Cymbalta and Effexor.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): These are older medications with more side effects but have shown to be effective for some people.
Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care
While professional treatment is often necessary, certain lifestyle changes can support recovery and help improve symptoms of depression.
Exercise: Regular physical activity releases serotonin and endorphins—brain chemicals that naturally boost mood. Even a 15-minute walk can boost mood by releasing feel-good chemicals in the brain.
Healthy Diet: Eating nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, supports brain function and emotional well-being.
Sleep Hygiene: Sleep disturbances are common with depression, but maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can improve overall mood and energy levels.
Social Support: Connecting with family and friends can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide emotional comfort.
Alternative and Complementary Treatments
Some people explore holistic approaches alongside traditional treatments.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practising mindfulness helps individuals manage negative thoughts and reduce emotional distress. Techniques like deep breathing and guided meditation can be effective tools.
Acupuncture: Some research suggests acupuncture may help relieve depressive symptoms by promoting relaxation and balancing the body's energy.
Herbal Supplements: Natural remedies like St. John’s Wort or SAMe may support mood regulation, but they can interact with medications, so it's important to consult a healthcare provider before use.
Support Groups and Peer Support
Talking with others who understand depression firsthand can be incredibly valuable. Whether through in-person meetings or online communities, support groups offer a safe space to share experiences, coping strategies, and encouragement.
Finding the Right Help for Depression
Everyone is unique and depression is deeply personal experience. So, what works for one person may not work for another. Finding the right treatment often involves some trial and error. A combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes tends to be the most effective approach. Consulting a mental health professional can help you determine the best plan for your unique situation.
When to Seek Professional Help for Depression
It is always wise to get support for mental health concerns. But, if you or someone you love is struggling to manage symptoms of depression and it has been impacting life in a negative way, that is a big sign to reach out for help. If the depression gets to a point where you or someone else is engaging in self-harm or having thoughts of suicide, reach out for immediately calling a crisis hotline or speaking with a professional.
No one has to face these feelings alone and its important that you don’t. So often people suffer silently thinking that they will be a burden if they reach out for help or that speaking with someone is a sign of weakness. You are not a burden. You are not weak. You are just at a difficult point in your journey. Talking about it and getting coping tools and strategies is a step toward healing feeling better. Sometimes, even the smallest step, like talking to someone, can make a huge difference.
Answers to Common Depression Questions Canadians Are Asking
Is there a difference between sadness and depression?
Yes. Sadness is a temporary emotion, while depression is a mental health condition with ongoing emotional, physical, and cognitive symptoms. Sadness typically has a clear cause and passes with time, while depression can persist for weeks or months, affecting daily life, motivation, sleep, appetite, and self-worth, even without a specific reason.
Can depression go away on its own without treatment?
In some cases, mild depressive episodes may lift over time, especially if triggered by a specific life event. However, for most people, depression doesn't fully resolve without some form of support. Left untreated, it can persist for months or even years and may worsen over time. Seeking help from a mental health professional ensures early intervention, better coping tools, and a faster recovery.
How long does depression usually last?
The duration of depression varies. Some people may experience a single episode lasting a few weeks or months, while others live with chronic or recurrent depression. Without treatment, depression can last much longer and interfere with daily functioning. With the right support, many people begin to feel better within a few months.
Can physical illnesses cause depression?
Absolutely. Chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disorders, or chronic pain conditions can increase the risk of depression. The stress of managing a long-term illness, physical limitations, and biochemical changes in the body can all contribute. In these cases, treating both the physical and emotional aspects together is key.
How do I help a loved one who is depressed?
Supporting someone with depression involves patience, empathy, and active listening. Encourage them to seek professional help without pushing. Offer to help with daily tasks, attend appointments, or just be there without judgment. Avoid minimizing their feelings or offering quick fixes. Saying “I’m here for you” often matters more than trying to fix the problem.
Does depression look different in men vs. women?
Yes. While both men and women experience depression, the symptoms can differ. Women often report sadness, guilt, and low self-esteem, while men may show irritability, anger, or emotional withdrawal. Men are also more likely to cope through substance use or risky behaviour. These differences can make male depression harder to spot and often go untreated.
Final Thoughts: Healing from Depression and Ending the Stigma
Depression is more than just a rough patch; it’s a real and complex medical condition. The more we understand the science behind it and recognise the symptoms, the more we can support those in need. We can even break the stigma and encourage more open conversations about mental health to reduce feelings of shame and isolation and increase willingness to seek treatment.
