Depression is a serious mood disorder that can have a major impact on the individual’s quality of life. It is estimated that around 1 in 5 people will experience depression at some point in their lives, but it is not always easy to know what to do if you are feeling down. In this article, we will explore the basics of endogenous depression, which is the most common type of depression and the one that is most likely to go unnoticed.
Contents
What is Endogenous Depression?
Endogenous depression is a type of depression that is caused by an imbalance in the body’s natural chemicals.
The natural chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine play an important role in regulating mood and stress levels. When these chemicals are out of balance, it can lead to depressive symptoms.
There are a few different types of endogenous depression, but the most common is bipolar disorder. In general, each person experiences depression differently, so it’s important to consult with your doctor if you’re experiencing persistent depressive symptoms that don’t seem to be getting better with medication or therapy.
Endo means “within” and dendrite means “tree branch.” So endogenous depression refers to a depression that is caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the body, specifically serotonin and norepinephrine.
Symptoms of Endogenous Depression
Symptoms of endogenous depression can vary in intensity and may include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, isolation, and fatigue. While no single symptom is diagnostic for endogenous depression, these feelings are typically a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to seek out help from a mental health professional:
Feelings of sadness or emptiness for no specific reason
One of the most common symptoms of endogenous depression is feelings of sadness or emptiness. This can be particularly noticeable when you are not used to experiencing these emotions, or when they are more intense than usual.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Another hallmark symptom of endogenous depression is difficulty concentrating and making decisions. This can be due to a feeling of overwhelming sadness or hopelessness, which makes it difficult to focus on anything else.
Loss of interest in activities that you once enjoyed
If you have difficulty concentrating and making decisions, it may also be difficult to keep up with your normal activities. This can include losing interest in things that you once enjoyed, such as spending time with friends or engaging in your favorite hobbies.
Changes in eating habits or weight gain/loss
Suppose you are experiencing significant changes in your eating habits, such as an increase in weight or an inability to lose weight. In that case, this may be an indication that you are experiencing endogenous depression.
Mood swings that range from being extremely happy to feel completely depressed
One of the most common symptoms of endogenous depression is mood swings that range from being extremely happy to feeling completely depressed. This can make it difficult to maintain any sense of stability or balance in your life.
Insomnia is a common symptom of endogenous depression, as it can be difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep when you are feeling overwhelmed by your emotions.
Low energy levels
Another common symptom of endogenous depression is low energy levels. This may be due to a lack of sleep, an inability to focus, or a general feeling of fatigue. Also, Feeling overwhelmed or out of control.
What Causes Endogenous Depression?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the cause of endogenous depression is likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors. However, some of the more common causes of endogenous depression include:
A lack of sunlight or regular exposure to sunlight (due to living in a dark environment or being sensitive to sunlight)
Excessive stress and anxiety
A history of trauma or abuse
A lack of social support
Poor diet and inadequate exercise
How To Treat Endogenous Depression?
Endogenous depression is a type of depression that is caused by an underlying medical condition. Treatment for endogenous depression typically involves medications and therapies specific to the underlying medical condition. However, some treatments may be effective in treating endogenous depression, regardless of the cause:
Medications
There are many different types of medications used to treat this type of depression. The most common type is medication therapy. Some of these medications are antidepressants, which work by restoring serotonin levels in the brain. Other medications are based on a different chemical pathway and are called mood stabilizers. These medications help to keep a person’s mood stable by preventing episodes of depression from occurring.
Therapies
There are a variety of therapies that can be used to treat endogenous depression. Some of these therapies are:
Talk therapy – A type of counseling that helps people deal with their thoughts and feelings. Talk therapy can be effective for treating a variety of different types of depressive symptoms. It is typically recommended as the first step in treatment for endogenous depression. However, some people may find relief from talk therapy in combination with antidepressant medication.
Cognitive behavioral therapy – CBT is a type of counseling that helps people learn how to change their thoughts and behaviors that may be contributing to their depressive symptoms. CBT is often recommended as the second step in treatment for endogenous depression.
Exposure Therapy: Another type of therapy that is often recommended for treating endogenous depression is exposure therapy. Exposure therapy helps people learn how to confront their fears and anxieties. This can be done in a safe and controlled setting. In exposure therapy, the person with depression is gradually exposed to things or situations that make them anxious or fearful. The goal is to help the person learn how to manage these feelings instead of avoiding them.
Lifestyle Changes
However, some things can be done on your own to help improve your mood and mental well-being. Here are five lifestyle changes that can help to treat endogenous depression:
1. Eat a balanced diet. Eat foods that contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to help increase your mood. Foods that are high in sugar and processed foods can contribute to depression.
2. Get enough exercise. Exercise is beneficial for overall health and well-being, including reducing symptoms of depression. Exercise can also boost serotonin levels in the brain.
3. Take supplements. Some supplements help treat depressive symptoms, such as magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure to talk with your doctor before taking any supplements for the treatment of depression.
4. Get adequate sleep. Getting enough sleep can improve mood and mental well-being. Try to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night. If you suffer from insomnia, discuss options for treatment with your doctor.
5. Connect with people who care about you. Connecting with people who support and care about you can help reduce depressive symptoms. Engage in positive activities, such as taking walks or going for a bike ride, to boost your mood.
If you are experiencing depression, it is essential to see a doctor. However, some things can be done on your own to help improve your mood and mental well-being.
Conclusion
Endogenous depression is a type of depression that is caused by factors outside the individual’s control, such as genetics or environmental factors. Endogenous depression affects about one in every five people and can be extremely difficult to treat. If you are struggling with endogenous depression, it is important to seek out professional help as soon as possible. There are many treatments available that can help you get your life back on track.
Hope this article was of help to you! If you are suffering from mental health disorders, you may seek help from Therapy Mantra. We have a team of highly trained and experienced therapists who can provide you with the tools and skills necessary for overcoming mental health disorders. Contact us today to schedule an online therapy or download our free Android or iOS app for more information.
