Depression

Depression is a serious mental illness characterized by deep sadness, loss of interest or joy, lethargy, and dejection. Other symptoms can include trouble sleeping, weight changes, difficulty concentrating, feelings of guilt and suicidal thoughts.

Depression is diagnosed using the ICD-10 (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems) Diagne criteria. Both physical symptoms and psychological symptoms are taken into account.

The drug treatment of depression includes different classes of substances, such as antidepressants, which primarily act on serotonin and norepinephrine transmission in the brain. The first choice here are the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) such as fluoxetine or sertraline, followed by serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI) such as venlafaxine and duloxetine. Tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are also still used, although they are usually only used as a third choice because they have more side effects.

Psychotherapeutic treatment is an important supplement to drug treatment. Among other things, behavioral therapy or psychotherapy based on depth psychology can be useful.

Mindfulness and meditative practices can also help treat depression. They can help divert attention from negative thoughts and feelings and boost self-esteem.

The prognosis for depression is usually good with adequate treatment. With early diagnosis and treatment, full recovery can be achieved.

When sad feelings and negative thoughts rule your entire life, it is called depression. Read more about the causes, course and treatment here.

Compilation of current figures and developments as well as articles from basic publications on the RKI website

You can access the website of the German Alliance Against Depression eV here

The website of the German Depression Aid Foundation