Depression is a mental illness characterized by feelings of sorrow, emptiness, or hopelessness that may last for several months or years. According to statistics, one in every four people will experience depression at some point in their life. Even though depression is the most significant cause of disability worldwide, the majority of individuals who suffer from it do not seek treatment. That’s why familiarizing yourself with these 5 ways on how to get over depression is a healthier choice. Likewise, many self-medicate with alcohol or other substances, which might aggravate their depression symptoms.
Experiencing this illness can make it difficult to accomplish daily activities, including sleeping, eating, and working. Most people who suffer from depression require therapy in order to recover. Medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications may be used in treatment.
Treatment can help alleviate depression symptoms, but as with many other mental illnesses diseases, there is no cure for it. Relapse or recurrence might occur even after several months of being symptom-free. Recognizing that depression relapse or recurrence is a possibility might be frightening, so you must understand everything about the teen depression problem.
What is Depression Relapse?
A relapse occurs when symptoms of depression reappear after four months without an incident. The symptoms might be the same or different as during the first bout of depression.
What is Depression Recurrence?
A recurrence occurs when symptoms reappear months or years after someone has recovered from their previous episode. This is particularly frequent during the first six months of pregnancy. A recurrence affects about 20% of people, although this number might climb when depression is severe.
What is the difference between Depression Relapse and Depression Recurrence?
Relapse and recurrence are not synonymous. To start with, it is helpful to understand that recovery is said to be achieved after someone is free of depressive symptoms for at least four months.
A relapse occurs when the depression returns after having attained remission but before having achieved a full recovery. On the other hand, a recurrence is a fresh bout of depression following a long healing period.
What Causes Depression Relapse or Recurrence
Around 50% of individuals who have had one episode of severe depression will have another. Specific triggers can produce a depressive episode in people with a history of depression. Knowing what might set off these episodes can help reduce or avoid a recurrence.
The following are common causes for depression relapse or recurrence:
- The loss of a loved one According to the American Cancer Society, one in every five people experiences significant depression after the death of a loved one.
- Stressful life events This includes family strife, breakups, grief, natural catastrophes, terror attacks, and more. In addition, people in the military are at a considerably higher risk for depression.
- Discontinued treatment The majority of patients who experience a relapse have discontinued their treatments. If someone does not achieve a comprehensive recovery, depression is likely to reoccur. There is no quick fix for depression. Stopping therapy too soon or without the doctor’s approval is not recommended.
- Addictive behaviors The use of alcohol, gambling, and other escapism mechanisms can create depression triggers.
3 Main Types Of Antidepressants
Antidepressants are prescription medicines used to treat depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorders, and other illnesses. They balance several brain chemicals involved in emotions and motivation, but they usually need several weeks to take effect. Antidepressants are classified into various kinds, such as:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
This type is prescribed most often because it has a solid track record of both safety and efficacy. SSRIs work by raising the amounts of a chemical in the brain known as serotonin. This is a neurotransmitter that transports information from one area of the brain to another, and it controls numerous elements of brain function, including mood, sleep, and emotion.
Noradrenaline and specific serotonergic antidepressants (NASSAs)
Since depression is linked to lower levels of monoamines in the brain, NASSAs work by increasing the concentrations of 5-HT and noradrenaline in the synaptic cleft to normal levels.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
Tricyclic antidepressants operate by inhibiting the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters. TCAs were among the earliest antidepressants created and are still regarded as useful in the treatment of depression.
How to Prevent a Depression Relapse
Here are some effective strategies on how to cope with depression symptoms and prevent its relapse:
- Commit to the treatment; don’t quit as soon as you feel better People struggling with depression often quit treatment when their symptoms are no longer evident. If the depression symptoms have gone away, then the treatment is working, but that does not mean that you have recovered yet. Like any other health condition, you have to remain committed to your treatment until your doctor believes you are ready. Not doing so might lead to depression relapse.
- Meditation can reduce your chance of relapse by up to 50% Daily meditation can improve your overall physical and mental well-being. During meditation, people can relax and clear their minds of the negative ideas that may be generating tension in their heads. According to research, meditation increases concentration and capacity to perform activities. It lets someone focus on the present, which significantly increases productivity and helps deal with depression and anxiety.
- Therapies reduce the risks of relapse Depressed people may be unable to bear their recurring emotional and mental pain. If suicidal thoughts are haunting one’s mind, then therapy might be the solution. Therapies are proven to reduce the risks of relapse by dealing with the factors that contribute to their depression symptoms. It replaces the negative thoughts and behavior patterns with more optimistic ideas and outlooks.
- Exercise regularly to release endorphins Studies have shown that physical activity is a natural antidepressant. According to research, exercise is an underused therapy for depression. Besides improving both physical and emotional well-being, it alleviates sadness and anxiety thanks to the release of endorphins. Endorphins, also known as happiness hormones, are chemicals that enhance feelings of pleasure and contentment. While depressed people usually find it difficult to begin exercising, it is worth noting that a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate the symptoms.
Get The Best Treatment — Depression Rehab in Key Healthcare
Depression is a hard challenge to overcome, but be aware that there is help available out there, like Key Healthcare teen depression treatment that offers the following services:
- An environment designed for those who have had one or more episodes of severe depression.
- A well-constructed teen aftercare plan to help the teenagers deal with life’s pressures after returning home, making them less likely to relapse. For example, our individual art therapy treatment lets patients explore healthy activities while they recover.
- Therapies led by mental health professionals with extensive expertise in treating situational and severe depression.
We also provide a multi-faceted treatment approach that combines intensive sessions with sober living homes, all tailored to the patient’s requirements. The medical staff is always on hand to keep an eye on things and alter medications as needed. Learn more about our programs and visit Key Healthcare today.
