Depression in the UAE: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Depression?

Depression is a serious mood disorder that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. Unlike occasional sadness, depression is persistent and can significantly impact one’s quality of life. It is medically known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression.

What is Distinctive About Depression Compared to Common Sadness?

While everyone feels sad or down sometimes, depression is more intense and lasts longer. Sadness is usually a temporary emotion triggered by specific events, like losing a job or a breakup. Depression, on the other hand, is more severe and lasts longer, often weeks, months, or even years, and can occur without any apparent reason. It interferes with daily functioning and is accompanied by a range of emotional and physical symptoms. Depressed individuals tend to feel helpless and hopeless and blame themselves for having these feelings. People who are depressed may become overwhelmed and exhausted and may stop participating in their routine activities. 

How Common is Depression?

Depression is quite common. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression. It affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, but it is more prevalent in women than men and often appears during the late teens to mid-20s.

What Are the Causes or Risk Factors for Depression?

Depression can result from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Some common risk factors include:

  • Genetics: A family history of depression increases the risk.
  • Brain chemistry: Imbalances in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters can contribute to depression. 
  • Hormones: Changes in hormone levels can trigger depression, particularly in women during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause.
  • Trauma and stress: Experiences such as abuse, loss of a loved one, difficult relationships, or financial problems can trigger depression.
  • Medical conditions: Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease, and certain medications can lead to depression.
  • Personality: People with certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem or a tendency to be overly dependent, are more likely to develop depression.
  • Substance Abuse: Alcohol and drug abuse can both cause and result from depression.

What Are the Symptoms of Depression?

Symptoms of depression vary but may include:

  • Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
  • Changes in appetite and weight (either loss or gain)
  • Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
  • Fatigue or loss of energy
  • Difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions
  • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
  • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

What Are the Complications of Depression?

If left untreated, depression can lead to a range of complications, including:

  • Physical health problems, such as heart disease
  • Increased risk of substance abuse
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Social isolation
  • Difficulties in personal and professional relationships
  • Suicide

How Is Depression Diagnosed?

Depression is diagnosed by a healthcare professional through a comprehensive evaluation, which includes:

  • Medical history: Discussing personal and family medical history.
  • Physical exam: Conducting a physical examination to rule out other conditions.
  • Psychiatric evaluation: Assessing symptoms, thoughts, feelings, and behaviour patterns.
  • Diagnostic criteria: Comparing symptoms to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria.

How is Depression Treated?

Depression is typically treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual and may include:

  • Psychotherapy: Talking to a mental health professional can help patients understand and manage their condition.
  • Medications: Antidepressants can help balance brain chemicals and alleviate symptoms.
  • Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep can improve symptoms.

What is Psychotherapy? And How Can Psychotherapy Help Depression?

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, involves speaking with a trained therapist to address mental health issues. It helps individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours and develop healthier coping mechanisms. For depression, psychotherapy can provide support and education, help identify and change negative thought patterns, teach problem-solving and coping skills, improve relationships and communication, and boost self-esteem and confidence. Several types of psychotherapy are effective for treating depression:

  • Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT): Focuses on identifying and changing negative thoughts and behaviours.
  • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Addresses interpersonal issues and aims to improve relationships.
  • Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores past experiences and emotional patterns to understand and resolve current issues.
  • Behavioral Activation: Encourages engagement in positive activities to improve mood.
  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT): Combines mindfulness practices with cognitive therapy to prevent relapse.

How Can Depression Be Supported at Home?

Support at home is crucial for managing depression. Here are some ways to support people with depression:

  • Encouragement: Encourage them to stick to their treatment plan.
  • Understanding: Be patient and understanding of their condition.
  • Active Listening: Offer a listening ear without judgment.
  • Positive Environment: Create a positive and stress-free environment.
  • Involvement: Involve them in activities and help them stay connected with loved ones.

Depression is a serious but treatable condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments is crucial for managing it effectively. Psychotherapy plays a vital role in treating depression by helping individuals understand and change their thought patterns and behaviours. Finding the right therapist and combining therapy with other treatments can lead to significant improvements. With the proper support and treatment, individuals with depression can lead fulfilling lives.