Dr. Dashleen Kaur Depression Psychiatrist in Amritsar

Depression, a prevalent mood disorder, manifests as a persistent sense of sadness, loss of interest, and anger, significantly impacting daily functioning, including memory, cognition, appetite, and sleep patterns.

As per the National Mental Health Survey 2015-16, approximately 15% of Indian adults require active intervention for various mental health concerns, with depression affecting one in every 20 individuals. While grief and depression share similarities, grief typically includes positive memories alongside pain, whereas depression is characterized by prolonged feelings of sadness.

Untreated or misdiagnosed depression can escalate to self-harm or suicide attempts. Clinical depression, among various types of depression, is particularly severe. Fortunately, medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments offer effective treatment avenues for this mental health condition.

Depression, classified as a psychiatric illness within mood disorders, profoundly impacts emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, often leading to significant emotional and physical challenges. Individuals may struggle with daily activities and harbor thoughts of despair. Contrary to misconceptions, depression does not reflect weakness but rather involves chemical imbalances in the brain, which can be addressed through medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Causes of Depression

While the exact cause of depression remains elusive to researchers, several factors contribute to the onset of this mood disorder.

Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine in the brain are associated with an increased risk of depression.

Genetics: Family history, particularly having biological parents or siblings with depression, substantially elevates the likelihood of developing the disorder.

Stressful Life Events: Events such as divorce, loss of a loved one, trauma, social isolation, and lack of support can heighten vulnerability to depression.

Hormonal Fluctuations: Imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels during the menstrual cycle or menopause may trigger depression in females.

Brain Structure: Reduced activity in the frontal lobe of the brain has been linked to an increased risk of depression, although the underlying cause of this abnormality remains unknown.

Substance Use: Misuse of alcohol or certain medications with depressive side effects can contribute to the development of depression.

Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like Parkinson's disease, heart attacks, insomnia, and cancer can predispose individuals to depression.

Common signs and symptoms of depression

This includes paranoid personality disorder, schizoid personality disorder and schizotypal personality. The most important features are by odd, eccentric thinking or behavior.

• Feelings of sadness or unhappiness
• Anger outbursts
• irritability, Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
• Loss of interest
• Sleep disturbances
• lack of energy
• Change in appetite
• Slow thinking, speaking or body movements
• Feelings of guilt, Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions
• Frequent thoughts of death, suicide attempt
• Unexplained problems, such as back pain or headache

There are various factors that can cause or precipitate depression

• Biological Brain changes
• Chemical changes in the brain
• Hormonal changes in the body
• Hereditary
• Traumatic Life events

Indicators for seeing a depression psychiatrist

It's crucial not to postpone seeking help from a psychiatrist, as untreated depression can worsen over time, leading to various mental and physical complications. If suicidal thoughts are present, immediate assistance should be sought. Fortunately, numerous treatments are available for depression, including medications and psychological counseling, which are highly effective for most individuals. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms of depression. Additionally, many individuals find value in seeking support from psychologists or other mental health counselors alongside medication therapy.

Treatment options for patients suffering from depression

• Medications
• Psychotherapy
• Residential treatment programs
• Other treatment options
• Electroconvulsive therapy
• Cranial magnetic stimulation

Types of Depression

Depressive disorders manifest in various forms, including:

1.Clinical depression: Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or low mood lasting at least two weeks. Symptoms may include changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and loss of interest in activities. Without proper treatment, it can lead to severe consequences, even death.

2.Persistent depressive disorder (PDD): A milder or moderate form of depression that persists for at least two years. Symptoms are less severe compared to clinical depression but still impactful on daily life.

3.Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD): Commonly observed in children aged 10 and above, characterized by intense irritability and frequent outbursts.

4.Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): Occurs alongside premenstrual syndrome, with mood symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and depression. Symptoms usually subside within a few days of the menstrual cycle but can be severe enough to cause distress.

5.Depressive disorder due to another medical condition: Conditions like hypothyroidism, Parkinson's disease, or heart disease can induce changes in the body leading to depressive symptoms.

6.Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Typically occurs during fall and winter, with symptoms disappearing in spring and summer.

7.Prenatal and postpartum depression: Prenatal depression occurs during pregnancy, while postpartum depression arises within four weeks of childbirth.

8.Atypical depression: Characterized by mood improvement in response to positive events, alongside symptoms like oversleeping and increased appetite.

Symptoms of Depression

Symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe depending on the type. Some of the common symptoms of depression are given below

• Feeling of sadness, hopelessness or worrisome.
• Loss of interest in hobbies and other activities that used to bring joy
• Being easily frustrated or irritated.
• Change in eating habits which may result in weight loss or weight gain.
• Loss in energy or feeling fatigue.
• Difficulty in taking important decisions, concentrating, or remembering things.
• Experiencing frequent stomachache, headache or sexual dysfunction.
• Thoughts of frequent self-harm or suicide attempt.

Prognosis of Depression

The prognosis of depression varies based on the severity and type, if it has been treated or left untreated, and whether it is temporary or having a lasting impression.

Without treatment, it can:

• Increase chances of other mental illnesses namely, dementia.
• Lead to worsening of existing chronic diseases in a patient viz. chronic pain or diabetes.
• Lead to self-harm or suicide attempt.

Depression Treatment by best Psychiatrist in Amritsar

Medications and psychotherapy stand as the most effective treatments for depression. A psychiatrist or depression specialist may prescribe medications to alleviate symptoms, with hospitalization recommended for patients with severe symptoms. Antidepressants are commonly prescribed for individuals grappling with depression.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often the first-line medications prescribed due to their safety profile and minimal side effects compared to other antidepressants. Common SSRIs include escitalopram (Lexapro), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva), fluoxetine (Prozac), citalopram (Celexa), and vilazodone (Viibryd).

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as desvenlafaxine (Pristiq, Khedezla), venlafaxine (Effexor XR), duloxetine (Cymbalta), and levomilnacipran (Fetzima) are another class of antidepressants commonly prescribed.

Atypical antidepressants, including mirtazapine (Remeron), bupropion (Wellbutrin XL, Wellbutrin SR, Aplenzin, Forfivo XL), trazodone, nefazodone, and vortioxetine (Trintellix), offer alternative options for depression treatment.

Tricyclic antidepressants, while effective, are reserved for cases when other medications prove ineffective due to their potential for major side effects. Examples include desipramine (Norpramin), imipramine (Tofranil), amitriptyline, nortriptyline (Pamelor), trimipramine (Surmontil), doxepin, and protriptyline (Vivactil).

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), and tranylcypromine (Parnate) are prescribed when other medications fail, but they require strict dietary restrictions to prevent serious side effects.

In some cases, psychiatrists may recommend combining two antidepressants or adding mood stabilizers or antipsychotics to enhance the antidepressant effect.

Psychotherapy

This is a type of therapy for depression also called psychological therapy or talk therapy is used by mental health professionals to treat patients with depression by talking about their mental condition and related issues. Such therapies help patients:

• Adjust to difficult situations or crises.
• Identifying negative thoughts and beliefs and replacing them with positive, healthy ones.
• Exploration of new experiences and relationships and develop positive connections with others.
• Finding better ways for coping and solving problems.
• Identifying the issues that lead to depression and change in behaviour that worsen them.
• Learning to set realistic goals in one’s life
• Developing the skill to tolerate and accept distress in a healthier manner.

Other Treatment Options

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) involves the application of electric current to the brain, influencing the function and impact of neurotransmitters to alleviate symptoms. This procedure is typically reserved for individuals who have not responded to medications, are unable to take antidepressants due to health reasons, or are at high risk of suicide.

Deep Transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS):

Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (dTMS) is a non-invasive method of brain stimulation utilized therapeutically for a range of neurological and psychiatric conditions. This technique involves administering magnetic pulses to precise brain regions to regulate neural activity. Particularly notable for its effectiveness in addressing depression, dTMS follows a standardized treatment regimen, although variations may occur based on individual conditions and equipment utilized. It serves as a valuable option for managing major depressive disorder (MDD), particularly when traditional treatments such as medication and psychotherapy have proven insufficient.

Hospitalization and residential treatment

Hospitalization is advised for individuals experiencing severe depression, particularly if they are unable to adequately care for themselves or are at risk of self-harm or harm to others. Hospitalization provides a structured environment where patients can receive intensive support and supervision until their mood stabilizes and improves.

Day treatment programs offer a comprehensive approach to managing depression symptoms. These programs typically combine counseling and outpatient support to help individuals maintain control over their symptoms while receiving necessary treatment and support.

Why is Dr. Dashleen Kaur the Best Doctor for Depression Treatment?

As mentioned in the introductory section of this blog, clinical depression can be treated with the right medication and therapy.

Dr. Dashleen Kaur is a senior psychiatrist in Amritsar with years of clinical experience in depression management. She is an active member of the Indian Association of Psychiatry, the Indian Association of Private Psychiatry, and the Amritsar Psychiatry Society. She combines medications along with psychotherapy for holistic treatment.

Dr. Dashleen Kaur clinic offers the following treatments for depression:

• Medications
• Psychotherapy
• Residential treatment programs
• Other treatment options
• Electroconvulsive therapy
• Cranial magnetic stimulation

As a piece of advice, Dr. Kaur advises patients to avoid alcohol at all times, getting quality sleep, exercise regularly, eat healthy, manage stress and spend quality time with their loved ones for a healthy and productive life.

FAQs

Depression

Can depression be treated?
Absolutely, seeking medical attention and therapy can indeed help treat depression. It's essential to have a conversation with your general practitioner, who can provide initial guidance and may refer you to a psychiatrist or therapist for further evaluation and treatment.
How dangerous is depression?
Indeed, untreated depression can pose serious risks, especially if it leads to self-harm or suicidal thoughts. That's why it's crucial to address depression promptly and seek appropriate treatment to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual experiencing it.
Can I get depression too?
Depression indeed represents a significant public health concern, affecting a substantial portion of the population globally. By the age of 65, statistics suggest that a considerable number of individuals, including one in three women and one in five men, may experience a major depressive episode. This prevalence underscores the widespread impact of depression across various demographics. In fact, it's estimated that depression affects between two to six percent of individuals worldwide in any given year, highlighting its pervasive nature and the need for effective interventions and support systems.
Why in India depression remains untreated?
In India, depression often goes untreated due to the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health issues. Regrettably, societal attitudes often view depression as a personal weakness rather than recognizing it as a legitimate medical condition. This stigma can deter individuals from seeking help or discussing their struggles openly. As a result, many people with depression may suffer in silence, without access to proper diagnosis and treatment. Addressing this stigma and fostering greater awareness about mental health is crucial to ensure that individuals feel comfortable seeking the support they need and deserve.
What can I expect from my psychiatrist?
Your psychiatrist will review your medical history and inquire about your current depressive episode. Based on this assessment, they may prescribe antidepressants and refer you to a psychologist for talk therapy to address your symptoms. Additionally, your psychiatrist may recommend alternative therapies such as deep transcranial magnetic stimulation, biofeedback therapy, or virtual reality therapy as part of your treatment plan. These interventions aim to provide comprehensive support tailored to your individual needs and circumstances.
Are there any side effect of depression medicine?
Yes, antidepressants can have various side effects, including weight gain, among others. Your psychiatrist will inform you about these potential side effects and provide guidance on preferred lifestyle and dietary changes that may help minimize them. It's essential to communicate openly with your psychiatrist about any concerns or experiences you have with your medication so that they can adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Should I opt for Hospitalization and residential treatment?
Hospitalization is advised for individuals experiencing severe depression who may be unable to care for themselves adequately or are at risk of self-harm or harming others. In such cases, hospital treatment provides a supportive environment where patients can receive intensive care and supervision until their mood stabilizes and improves. This ensures their safety and well-being while they undergo treatment and work towards recovery.