Depression Intermittent

Recurrent depression: understanding and treatment

Recurrent depression, also known as unipolar depression or remitting depression, is a type of depressive disorder. A characteristic feature of this mental state is the occurrence of episodes of deep depression, which alternate with periods of absence of symptoms or a decrease in their severity.

Recurrent depression differs from other forms of depression, such as bipolar depression or bipolar disorder, in that it is not accompanied by episodes of mania or hypomania. Unlike bipolar disorder, patients with recurrent depression do not experience periods of increased mood or energy.

The main symptoms of recurrent depression include deep sadness, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite and weight, fatigue, problems concentrating and making decisions, feelings of guilt or helplessness, and thoughts of death or suicide. These symptoms can significantly affect patients' quality of life and their ability to function in daily life.

The causes of periodic depression are not fully understood, but it is believed that genetic and environmental factors may play a role in its development. However, the exact mechanisms leading to the periodicity of depressive episodes still remain unclear.

Treatment of periodic depression is based on a combination of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SRIs), may be used to reduce symptoms of depression and prevent recurrent episodes. In cases of more severe depression that is intermittent or refractory to pharmacotherapy, the use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may be recommended.

Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), can be helpful in developing coping mechanisms and improving patients' quality of life. Regular psychotherapy sessions help patients explore and change negative thought patterns, develop problem-solving strategies, and improve interpersonal relationships.

It is important to note that recurrent depression is a chronic condition and treatment is aimed at managing symptoms and preventing relapses. Regular follow-up with a psychiatrist and adherence to prescribed therapy are important aspects of managing this disorder.

In addition to medication and psychotherapeutic treatment, it is also important to pay attention to a healthy lifestyle and self-care. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep and stress management can help reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall well-being.

Social support also plays an important role in managing recurrent depression. Talking to trusted people and participating in group therapy sessions or support groups can help patients cope with the emotional stress and isolation that can accompany this condition.

In conclusion, recurrent depression is a form of depressive disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of major depression interspersed with periods of absence or decreased severity of symptoms. Treatment includes pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and self-care support. Regular monitoring by a specialist, adherence to prescribed therapy and support from loved ones play an important role in the effective management of this condition.

Contents: Periodic depression (D. periodica) is a chronic depressive endogenous psychosis that occurs in relatively rare attacks of depression in the form of incomplete, erased depressions. The term "D" p." should be applied to diseases that begin with incomplete depressions that do not always occur after endogenous phases, to designate depressions that regularly recur at regular intervals. The main diagnostic feature of D.periodica is the existence of a single acute or prolonged epileptoid seizure, which originates from a full or hypomanic phase leading to an episode of depression. This disease does not develop. It occurs only after manic-depressive psychosis. During two periods of remission, a number of conditions of varying content may appear, such as neuroleptic depression (with pronounced neurosis-like affect), reactive depression and depression of constitutional types. Then comes a phase of depression, one or more, after which a period of clinical stability begins. A new manifestation of psychosis begins again in the phase of depressive symptoms. And again, a thorough study must be carried out to detect changes in the content of the disease from the period of remission to the period of depression or vice versa. In chronic cases this can be done often. Severity of pathology