Depression
What is depression?
Depression or major depressive disorder (MDD) is a complex mental health condition that affects an estimated 300 million people worldwide. Characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. It is more than just a bout of the blues; depression is a serious condition that requires attention and treatment.
Thought to affect approximately one in six people at some point in their lifetime, and according to the World Health Organization, one of the world’s leading causes of disability; depression is a pervasive mood disorder that can significantly impair one’s ability to function in daily life. It affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, often leading to a sense of emptiness and worthlessness.
Symptoms range from relatively minor to severe. It can hit indiscriminately and has a negative influence in all areas of a sufferer’s life: work, relationships, and physical wellbeing. Recognising the signs and symptoms of depression is essential for early intervention and treatment.
People with alcoholism are almost four times more likely to have major depressive disorder than the general population. When there is a dual diagnosis of alcoholism occurring together with another psychiatric condition, this is called co morbidity or dual disorder.
Alcoholism (or another addictive illness) often makes diagnosis and treatment of the second psychiatric illness more difficult, because the behaviours and symptoms of alcoholism mask the symptoms of the other illness and can prevent the client seeking help.
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Living with depression presents numerous difficulties, that can significantly affect well-being and functioning:
→ Emotional and mental strain: Constant feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and hopelessness can be overwhelming. Negative thought patterns are difficult to break and can lead to a downward spiral of despair.
→ Physical health issues: Depression can manifest physically, leading to chronic pain, digestive issues, and fatigue. This can result in a cycle where poor physical health exacerbates mental health issues.
→ Social isolation: Depression often leads to withdrawal from social activities and relationships. Individuals may avoid friends and family, leading to loneliness and further exacerbation of depressive symptoms.
→ Impaired daily functioning: Basic tasks such as personal hygiene, household chores, and maintaining employment can become insurmountable challenges. This can lead to job loss, financial difficulties, and increased stress.
→ Sleep disturbances: Many people with depression experience insomnia or hypersomnia, both of which can further impact their mood and energy levels.
→ Substance abuse: Some individuals may turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism, leading to addiction and complicating their mental health condition.
Symptoms of depression can include:
→ Extreme or extended feeling of sadness, feeling tearful.
→ Decline in interest with life, no motivation to engage in hobbies.
→ Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, emptiness, or guilt.
→ Loss or gain in weight, changes in appetite or eating habits.
→ Changes in sleeping. Too much or too little, and insomnia.
→ Withdrawing from family, friends, loved ones and social situations.
→ Feeling more than usually irritable or angry.
→ Thoughts of harming oneself or suicide.
It’s important to note that individuals may experience depression differently, and not everyone will exhibit all these symptoms.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, seeking professional help is a crucial step toward recovery. Remember, you are not alone, and effective treatment is available.
Residential treatment for depression.
Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that requires prompt attention and appropriate treatment. By recognising the signs and symptoms of depression and seeking professional help, individuals can take proactive steps towards recovery and regain control of their lives.
Depression is a treatable condition, and several approaches can help individuals manage their symptoms effectively. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy; medication – antidepressant medicines; and support groups. In some instances, residential rehab treatment, also known as inpatient treatment, may be the best option.
Ibiza Calm is a specialised mental health treatment clinic that provides a structured and supportive environment where individuals struggling with a depressive disorder, can receive intensive therapy and medical supervision, as well as peer support, reducing the sense of isolation and loneliness.
The clinic offers a comprehensive approach to recovery. The Ibiza Calm team comprises experienced healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and therapists, who work together to provide the highest level of care and support to each patient.
Key components of residential treatment at Ibiza Calm include:
Comprehensive assessment: Upon admission, individuals undergo a thorough assessment to understand the severity of their bipolar disorder, co-occurring conditions, and specific needs. This helps in creating a personalised treatment plan.
Individualised treatment plans: Each person’s experience with bipolar is distinct, so treatment plans are tailored to address specific symptoms and challenges. This personalised approach enhances the effectiveness of therapy.
Supportive community: Being surrounded by peers who understand and share similar struggles creates a sense of belonging and support. Group therapy sessions provide opportunities to learn from others, share experiences, and build social skills.
Intensive one-to-one therapy: Residential treatment involves various therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours associated with both manic and depressive episodes; dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), which focuses on developing skills to manage emotions and improve relationships.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS is a form of neuromodulation. A non-invasive, non-convulsive method of brain stimulation therapy that has proved effective in the treatment of neurological and mental health conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Aftercare planning: Successful residential treatment includes preparing for life upon leaving the clinic. This involves developing coping strategies and relapse prevention plans, as well as access to support groups. Clients are introduced to the aftercare therapy group before leaving treatment, ensuring they are confident of ongoing, continued support.
Mindfulness techniques and holistic approaches: We teach and encourage practices such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and deep breathing to promote relaxation and reduce stress. We incorporate holistic methods such as art therapy, music therapy, physical exercise and nutrition guidance, to address the mind-body connection and promote overall well-being.
Medical management: Medications are often essential in managing bipolar disorder. Our residential treatment centre gives you access to the best health care, including psychiatrists who can prescribe and monitor medications such as mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants to ensure they are effective and well-tolerated.
Family therapy: This means involving family members in the treatment process to improve communication and provide support. All our treatment programmes include a family support group. Any family members can attend, weekly online, from the moment their loved one enters the treatment clinic.
There are many different types of depression, some of the most common include:
→ Major depressive disorder (MDD): This is the most common form of depression, characterised by persistent low mood and loss of interest or pleasure in activities.
→ Persistent depressive disorder also known as dysthymia: Dysthymia involves chronic, long-term depression lasting for two years or more. Symptoms may be less severe than MDD but still interfere with daily functioning.
→ Bipolar disorder: Formerly known as manic-depressive illness, bipolar disorder involves cycling between periods of extreme highs (mania) and lows (depression).
→ Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): SAD is a type of depression that occurs seasonally, typically during the winter months when there is less sunlight.
→ Postpartum depression: Experienced by some women after giving birth, postpartum depression involves intense feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion.
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