Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While many are familiar with the concept of situational depression, caused by external factors such as loss or trauma, this lesser-known condition presents its own set of challenges.
In this article, we will explore what endogenous depression is, the difference between endogenous and exogenous depression, its symptoms, causes and treatment. Additionally, Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) Clinical Trials are being conducted across Texas for people suffering from depression. If you or someone you know is affected, consider enrolling in these trials.
What is Endogenous Depression?
It is a type of depression that was once considered a separate condition, but it is now understood to fall under the umbrella of MDD.
MDD, or clinical depression, is a mood disorder marked by persistent and severe feelings of sadness that last for long periods. These emotions adversely affect one’s mood, behavior, and various physical functions, such as sleep and appetite. It is estimated that each year approximately 8.4% of adults experience MDD.
The Different Causes of Endogenous Depression
The exact cause of this condition is not fully understood, but research suggests that biological factors, such as genetics, neurochemistry, and brain structure, may play a significant role. It is believed that:
- Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, may contribute to the development of this condition.
- A family history of depression or a personal history of other mental health disorders may increase the risk of developing it.
Is Endogenous Depression Different from Exogenous Depression?
| ENDOGENOUS DEPRESSION | EXOGENOUS DEPRESSION |
|---|---|
| It occurs without any prior stress or trauma. In other words, it has no clear external cause and is mainly linked to genetic and biological factors. | It begins after a stressful or traumatic event. |
| It is sometimes called “biologically based” depression. | This type of depression is more commonly known as “reactive” depression. |
How Endogenous Depression Affects Individuals on a Deep Emotional & Psychological Level?
Emotional Impact
- Persistent Sadness: Individuals with this type of depression often feel intense sadness that doesn’t seem to have a specific cause. This sadness can be overwhelming and unrelenting.
- Hopelessness: A deep sense of hopelessness is common, where individuals feel that their situation will never improve. This can lead to feelings of despair and a lack of motivation to seek help or try new things.
- Loss of Interest: Activities and hobbies that once brought joy and satisfaction may no longer be appealing. This loss of interest can extend to social interactions and intimate relationships, leading to isolation.
- Guilt and Worthlessness: Individuals suffering from this type of depression often experience intense feelings of guilt and worthlessness, even if there is no logical reason for these emotions. They may feel like a burden to others and believe that they are undeserving of happiness.
- Emotional Numbness: Individuals may also feel emotionally numb, unable to experience any emotions, whether positive or negative. This emotional blunting can be distressing and alienating.
Psychological Impact
- Cognitive Distortions: It can cause distorted thinking patterns. Individuals might see the world through a negative lens and have difficulty thinking positively about the future.
- Impaired Concentration: It becomes challenging for individuals suffering from this to focus on tasks or make decisions. This cognitive impairment can affect work, school, and daily responsibilities, leading to frustration and decreased productivity.
- Low Self-Esteem: It often erodes self-esteem, making individuals doubt their abilities and worth. This can prevent them from pursuing opportunities and engaging in activities that could help improve their mood.
- Suicidal Thoughts: In severe cases, individuals may experience thoughts of suicide or self-harm. These thoughts are a manifestation of despair and pain they are feeling and require immediate attention and intervention.
- Psychomotor Changes: Individuals might exhibit changes in physical activity levels, either moving much more slowly than usual (psychomotor retardation) or feeling restless and agitated (psychomotor agitation).
Also Read: Insights into Melancholic Depression
Symptom of Endogenous Depression
Diagnosis of Endogenous Depression
A medical professional may diagnose an individual with MDD if they exhibit symptoms for at least two weeks. When diagnosing endogenous depression which is now typically classified under major depressive disorder (MDD), a healthcare provider typically follows these steps:
- The doctor may ask if any family members have had MDD or other mental health conditions.
- The doctor may ask about personal history of medical conditions, mental health issues, and any current medications you are taking.
- The doctors may use Standardized Questionnaires. These questionnaires assess the severity and nature of your depression, helping to determine if you have MDD and its characteristics.
- To be diagnosed with MDD, you must meet the criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The main criteria include experiencing a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities for more than two weeks, along with other symptoms.
Seeking Help: The First Step Towards Healing
Despite its internal origins, endogenous depression is treatable. The first and most crucial step is seeking help. This can be daunting, but reaching out to a healthcare professional is vital. Treatment often involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy.
Medications
Several medications are available to treat MDD, including:
- Antidepressants: These medications often increase the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, helping to regulate mood and behavior.
- Mood Stabilizers: Commonly used for bipolar disorder, these medications can help minimize mood swings and prevent depressive episodes.
- Antipsychotic Medications: These can block certain dopamine receptors in the brain, reducing the transmission of messages and alleviating psychotic symptoms. Some antipsychotic medications also increase serotonin levels, providing mood-lifting effects. These may be prescribed if a person has MDD with psychotic features.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, or “talk therapy,” includes several methods where individuals speak with a therapist to develop new ways of thinking and behaving. Common types of psychotherapy for MDD include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This helps individuals identify and change harmful thoughts and behaviors. Studies show that CBT is effective for treating depression and that combining CBT with medication is more effective than medication alone.
- Family-Focused Therapy: This involves the person with MDD and their family members learning about MDD symptoms and techniques to manage them. Research indicates that family-focused therapy is effective for children with depression.
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): This approach emphasizes the role of relationships in mental health, helping individuals understand and manage how their MDD affects their interactions, mood, and communication.
Self-Care: Nurturing the Mind and Body
In addition to professional treatment, self-care plays a critical role in managing endogenous depression. Here are a few strategies that can help:
- Engaging in regular physical activity to boost mood and energy levels.
- Maintaining consistent sleep schedules to improve overall well-being.
- Eating regular, healthy and balanced meals.
- Avoiding alcohol, nicotine, and recreational drugs.
- Practices like meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Connecting with friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.
Takeaway
In conclusion, endogenous depression is a complex mental health condition that can feel like a never-ending battle, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone. By understanding the symptoms, causes and through a combination of comprehensive treatments and support, individuals grappling with this can reclaim their sense of vitality and hope.
