Depression is termed as a mental health disorder that is complicated and diverse and is known to affect millions of individuals worldwide. It is characterized by a loss of interest, hopelessness, and a wave of sadness that develops over a period of time. Depression is the most common comorbid condition associated with Parkinson's disease.
Symptoms of mental health depression:
You may feel a loss of interest in things that you once enjoyed doing.
You may experience a sleep disturbance
You will be low most of the time
You may have a feeling of guilt most of the time
You will have difficulty concentrating and in making decisions
You will eventually develop suicidal thoughts
Types of depression:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): It is characterised by persistent and severe depressive symptoms that interfere with daily functioning.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): It is a chronic type of depression that develops over a period of time and lasts for two years or more.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): It occurs during specific seasons, often in the winter months when there is less natural sunlight.
Postpartum Depression: Women, especially after giving birth, characterized by mood changes, anxiety, and difficulty bonding with the baby.
Bipolar Disorder: It is mainly characterized by mood swings that occur during alternative intervals that range from high mania to low depression. It is a swing of a pendulum that occurs alternatively.
Treatment options:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: They are most frequently prescribed first by doctors. Compared to other antidepressants, these medications are thought to be safer and typically have less unpleasant side effects.
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors: SNRIs will act in the brain by raising serotonin and norepinephrine levels preventing their reuptake. The central nervous system (CNS) synaptic cleft is where these monoamines remain for a longer period when reuptake is prevented.
SNRIs work well for treating some anxiety disorders as well as depression.
Tricyclic antidepressants: Their mode of action is similar to SNRIs, where they inhibit serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake, but they can also have an impact on other neurotransmitter systems. TCAs are less frequently given than more recent antidepressants despite having more adverse effects regardless of their general effectiveness. Tricyclics are, therefore, typically not recommended unless an SSRI has been tried and results have not improved.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors: Monoamine oxidase is an enzyme that breaks neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and serotonin and blocks their action.
MAOIs are useful, but they can interact dangerously with some foods and drugs, necessitating careful monitoring and dietary changes.
MAOIs are typically used in cases of treatment-resistant depression because of these dangers.
Atypical Antidepressants: This category includes medications that don't fit into the traditional classes of antidepressants.
Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is a type of atypical antidepressant that primarily affects the neurotransmitter dopamine and is often used to treat depression with atypical features or as an adjunct to other antidepressants.
Additional Medicines: Supplementary use of certain drugs that are not approved specifically for depression may improve the effectiveness of treatment. Certain drugs like Cirrosam 400mg Tablet contain the active ingredient S-Adenosyl L- Methionine. It is a naturally occurring substance that is essential to many biological functions, including the synthesis of neurotransmitters like dopamine, melatonin, and serotonin, which are crucial for mental health and mood regulation.
Things to do to balance mood:
Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. These acids are beneficial for brain health and mood regulation.
It is advised to incorporate complex carbohydrates into your diet, such as whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, oats) and legumes, which provide a steady release of energy and support serotonin production.
Nutrients from certain foods, such as the following, may improve mood:
Antioxidants and other substances found in dark chocolate may raise serotonin levels and elevate mood.
Berries are packed with flavonoids and antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and protect neurons.
Nuts and seeds provide magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids that help regulate mood and maintain the health of the brain.
Summing up:
Balancing mood and managing depression often involve a combination of psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and medication. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment recommendations.