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Understanding Depression and Anxiety: A Compassionate Guide

Updated: Jul 7, 2023

GP Klinik is here to support you through your mental health journey.

Depression and anxiety are common mental health challenges that touch the lives of many. Our community doctors understand how these conditions can affect your well-being and daily life. We are here to offer a helping hand.

Depressed individual being maladaptive due to psychological distress

Depression: A Closer Look


Depression is like a cloud that sometimes hangs over us. It can be light or heavy, and it affects people differently. Here are some signs that you or someone you love might be experiencing depression:


  • Feeling really sad or like there’s no hope

  • Not enjoying things that used to make you happy

  • Eating too much or too little

  • Having trouble sleeping or sleeping a lot

  • Feeling really tired

  • Finding it hard to focus or make choices

  • Feeling worthless or really guilty

  • Thinking about death or hurting yourself

  • Feeling on edge or unable to sit still

  • Having headaches, stomachaches, or other aches and pains

  • Depression doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people might have different signs, or only a few of these.


What Causes Depression?


Depression can be like a puzzle with many pieces. Some pieces might be:


  • Family History: Sometimes depression runs in families.

  • Brain Chemistry: The brain has chemicals that affect how we feel. Sometimes the balance of these chemicals is off.

  • Life Events: Things like losing someone you love, ending a relationship, or money problems.

  • Long-term Stress: When stress goes on for a long time, it can affect how you feel.

  • Health Problems: Being sick for a long time or having a serious illness like cancer.

  • Using Alcohol or Drugs: Sometimes using these substances can make you feel depressed.

  • Not everyone with these pieces will have depression, and sometimes depression happens for no clear reason.



Anxiety: When Worry Takes Over


Anxiety is like a constant worry or fear that doesn’t go away. It can make your heart race, make it hard to sleep, or make you feel tense. Like depression, anxiety can show up in different ways:


  • Worrying a lot about everyday things

  • Feeling restless or on edge

  • Having trouble sleeping

  • Muscle tension

  • Sweating

  • Finding Help and Hope


If you think you might be dealing with depression or anxiety, it’s really important to talk to someone who can help, like a doctor or counselor. There’s no shame in asking for help. Our community doctors are here to listen and help you find the best way to feel better, which might include medicine, talking to someone, or lifestyle changes.


Remember, taking the first step towards getting help is a sign of strength. Our community is here for you.


References :

  1. Genome-wide association analyses identify 44 risk variants and refine the genetic architecture of major depression: read more

  2. The Neurobiology of Depression—Revisiting the Serotonin Hypothesis: read more

  3. Childhood Trauma and Risk for Chronic Depression: A Case-Control Study: read more

  4. Chronic Stress, Glucocorticoid Receptor Resistance, Inflammation, and Disease Risk: read more

  5. Depression as a Risk Factor for Poor Prognosis Among Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: Systematic Review and Recommendations: read more

  6. Substance Abuse and Depression: read more

  7. Genetics of Anxiety Disorders: The Complex Road from DSM to DNA: read more

  8. Psychological and Pharmacological Treatments for Adults With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review Update: read more





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