February 24, 2023
Depression should not be confused with depression. Or to think that depression can only be treated with antidepressants, or that it cannot be cured. But then, what support once morest this mental illness affecting one in five people during their lifetime?
A little bit of blues that ends up passing in a few days, it’s normal: it’s what we call depression. But when this state is long-lasting (more than two weeks) and causes an impact on professional, social and family life, we then speak of depression. According to the definition of the World Health Organization (WHO), this mental disorder is characterized by the concomitant presence of these three main symptoms:
- depressed mood;
- loss of interest, dejection;
- loss of energy, increased fatigue.
And at least two other symptoms including:
- reduced concentration and attention;
- decreased self-esteem and self-confidence;
- feelings of guilt and worthlessness;
- negative and pessimistic prospects for the future;
- sleep disturbances;
- loss of appetite;
- suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
In France, Inserm estimates that approximately 20% of people are or will be affected by depression during their lifetime. And for Medicare, “Studies show that 40% of people suffering from depression do not seek appropriate care”.
relieve suffering
What is the goal of treating depression? Relieve suffering and sadness, reduce the consequences of depression and the risk of suicide, sums up the Psycom site, a public organization providing information on mental health and combating stigma. To do this, it is necessary to distinguish the degree of severity of depression.
In the case of a mild depressive episode, “it is recommended to resort to psychotherapy” but not to antidepressant medication. This can be prescribed as part of a moderate depressive episode “before starting psychotherapy, or as a complement”. It will also be prescribed in case of severe depression, “associated or not with psychotherapy and sometimes with other psychotropic drugs”.
The prescription of antidepressant drugs is therefore far from systematic, and psychotherapy is recommended regardless of the severity of the depressive episode. This can be conducted by a psychiatrist or a psychologist, and take the form of behavioral and cognitive therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy or analytical inspiration. If you feel concerned, do not hesitate to talk to your doctor.