Understanding Depression and the Role of Pity

Depression and pity often go hand in hand. To be depressed is to experience extended periods of sadness that interferes with daily life. Those in a relationship with someone who is depressed suffer as well, and may cope with the situation by pitying, or feeling sorrow for the depressed. To look into whether this is a positive coping mechanism, it is necessary to understand more about the condition of depression.

Symptoms

• Those that are depressed feel unrelenting sadness, pessimism, and anxiousness. They may also exhibit a change in diet or sleep pattern. Other signs of depression include a general loss of interest and thoughts of suicide.

Causes

• There is no singular cause of depression. It may result from a trauma, a psychological imbalance, environmental factors, or genetics.

Types

• The different forms of depression are psychotic depression, postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, dysthymic disorder, and major depressive disorder.

Detection

• Depression can be detected by visiting a doctor or mental health professional to conduct physical and psychological examinations.

Treatment

• The methods of treatment for depression include medication, psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy, or the herbal remedy St. John's wort. Loved ones should not engage in pity with the depressed as a means of aiding treatment. This may be a positive reinforcement, and discourage the depressed from resuming a normal lifestyle and routine.