As of: February 20, 2024, 5:54 p.m
By: Natalie Hull-Deichsel
Comments
Press
Split
Depression is a serious illness that, if left untreated, can last longer than eight to twelve months and can recur, even to a more severe extent.
Each of us probably knows phases in life that are characterized by bad moods and sadness.
The expression “depressed” is often used in such moments.
As a rule, your condition improves on its own.
But what if not?
What symptoms and signs indicate depression and what the two-question test means for a possible diagnosis.
Depression may be present if symptoms persist for more than two weeks
Feelings of guilt and worthlessness, as well as low self-esteem or hopelessness about the future, can be associated with depression.
© Science Photo Library/Imago
From a medical perspective, depression is a serious illness that, according to the
German Depression Aid and Suicide Prevention Foundation,
has profound effects on the way those affected think, feel and act.
Depression is associated with disruptions in brain and other body functions - which increases the risk of a stroke - and causes significant suffering.
People who suffer from depression are often unable to recover from their low mood, lack of motivation and negative thoughts on their own.
Depression clearly differs from pure, frequent sadness by three criteria.
Don't miss anything: You can find everything about health in the regular newsletter from our partner 24vita.de.
According to the foundation, there is an indication of depression if at least five symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, lack of motivation or even sleep disorders are present over a period of at least two weeks and at least one of the two main symptoms - depressed mood and loss of interest or joy - is noticeable.
Depression can manifest itself differently in everyone, which means that not everyone shows all the same symptoms.
And the symptoms are not always clear, as they are different for women and men.
The severity of depression is divided into mild, moderate or severe depending on the intensity of the symptoms and the associated limitations.
Recognize depression with a two-question test
The first signs of depression can be shown by a simple test*, the two-question test.
If you can answer “yes” to both questions, you should contact a doctor or psychologist.
Depressive states require professional help.
My news
Reduce belly fat: If you know one rule, you are guaranteed to read your stomach
1 hour ago
The best devices and methods: How to measure your blood pressure correctlyread
Red wine drinkers are more likely to have flat stomachs: read which alcohol is particularly unhealthy
No appointment in the practice necessary: Read which specialists you can see directly without a referral
Dementia in people under 65: Several factors can increase the risk read
Pantoprazole for heartburn: Why you should switch to alternatives read
Have you often felt depressed, sad, depressed or hopeless in the last four weeks?
In the last four weeks, have you had significantly less desire and enjoyment for things that you normally enjoy doing?
*MA Whooley, AL Avins, J. Miranda, WS Browner: Case-finding instruments for depression. Two questions are as good as many. In: J Gen Intern Med. Volume 12, No. 7, 1997, pp. 439–445
Understanding causes of depression
Many people assume that depression is caused by strokes of fate or stress at work or in a relationship.
Or that a lack of light and vitamin D in the winter months also triggers feelings of sadness and depression.
Depression can actually have different and multiple causes, and it can even occur as a symptom of hypothyroidism.
The earlier depression is recognized and treated, the lower the risk of serious consequences.
Depression is much more complex than a broken arm
Depression, unlike a broken bone, cannot be traced back to a single cause or trigger.
Rather, it develops from the interaction of different influences, psychosocial and physical (neurobiological) factors.
The psychosocial factors refer to a person's overall behavior, their life experiences and their relationships with other people.
Circumstances such as traumatic experiences or abuse early in life can increase the risk of later depression.
In addition to psychosocial triggers, physical causes also always play a role in the development of depression, including changes in the body and especially neurobiological changes in the brain.
These include, for example, inherited factors that can influence the risk of the disease.
Depression can be triggered by changes in stress hormones or an imbalance of other neurotransmitters in the brain.
Are you depressed? With telephone pastoral care you get help around the clock - every day of the year: Call or. The call is free of charge. Your phone number will not be transmitted and you do not have to say your name. The conversation lasts as long as necessary.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.