Understanding Depression: Recognising the Signs and Finding the Path to Recovery

Life’s pressures can weigh heavily on anyone, even those who appear to have everything together. Depression is a serious mood disorder that goes beyond occasional sadness or feeling “down.”  It causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest and can interfere with your thinking, memory, sleep and appetite .  Major depressive disorder – often simply called “depression” – is the most severe form and requires attention and care .

In this article, we explore what depression is, recognise its signs and symptoms, consider common causes, and discuss effective ways to seek help and recover.  If you or someone you know is struggling, please remember that depression is treatable, and reaching out for support is an important first step.

What Is Depression?

Depression is more than a fleeting mood; it is a medical condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or background.  According to the Cleveland Clinic, depression causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in things and activities you once enjoyed .  It can also lead to difficulties in thinking, memory and everyday functioning .  Though sadness after a difficult life event is normal, depression lasts for at least two weeks and includes additional symptoms beyond sadness .

Several types of depressive disorders exist.  Major depressive disorder (clinical depression) is the most common and severe form, defined by feeling sad or worthless most days for at least two weeks along with other symptoms .  Other forms include persistent depressive disorder (a longer‑lasting but less severe mood disturbance), seasonal affective disorder (depression linked to seasonal changes) and postpartum depression .

Symptoms and Signs to Watch For

Depression affects people differently, and symptoms can range from mild to severe.  The Cleveland Clinic lists several common signs :

• Persistent sadness, hopelessness or worry – Children and adolescents may be irritable rather than sad .

• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed .

• Irritability or frustration more than usual .

• Changes in appetite – eating too much or too little, leading to weight gain or loss .

• Sleep disturbances – insomnia or sleeping too much .

• Low energy or fatigue, even after rest .

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions .

• Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches or sexual dysfunction without a clear medical cause .

• Thoughts of self‑harm or suicide – if you experience these thoughts, seek immediate help .

  
  

People may experience some or all of these symptoms.  Depression can also manifest differently across cultures and age groups.  For example, high‑achieving professionals may mask their struggles behind productivity, experiencing burnout, perfectionism and impostor syndrome .  Recognising depression early can lead to more effective treatment.

What Causes Depression?

There is no single cause of depression.  Research suggests that multiple factors contribute :

• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine can influence mood .

• Genetics: Having a first‑degree relative with depression increases your risk, though you can develop depression without a family history .

• Stressful life events: Trauma, loss, divorce, isolation and lack of support can trigger depression .

• Medical conditions: Chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease or chronic pain can lead to depression .

• Medications and substance use: Some drugs and alcohol can cause or worsen depressive symptoms .

High‑achievers may face added risks because of relentless pressure and high expectations.  In fast‑paced environments like Central London, corporate executives and entrepreneurs often operate under intense pressure to perform, leading to stress, self‑doubt and burnout .  These stresses can exacerbate or trigger depression.

Why Seek Help?  The Importance of Treatment

Depression is treatable.  Approximately 80–90 percent of people with depression who seek treatment eventually respond well .  Effective treatments include:

Talking Therapies

Psychotherapy helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours .  Several types of therapy are available:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) aims to help you understand how your thoughts and behaviours affect your emotions and focuses on changing them to improve mood .  Sessions usually occur weekly or bi‑weekly and typically last 8–16 sessions .

• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) focuses on relationships and communication, helping you cope with bereavement or other relationship‑related issues .

• Behavioural Activation Therapy emphasises the link between activities and mood, helping people re‑engage with social and pleasurable activities .

• Individual Problem‑Solving Therapy targets specific problems and develops practical strategies to address them .

• Couples Therapy can be helpful when relationship dynamics contribute to depression .

At Synara Therapy, we integrate CBT, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and compassion‑focused approaches to address trauma, negative thinking and self‑criticism.  With over 20 years of experience, our therapist provides expert, evidence‑based care in English, Turkish and Spanish, offering both in‑person and online sessions.

Medication

Antidepressants can be effective, particularly for moderate or severe depression .  They should be prescribed and monitored by a doctor.  For many people, a combination of medication and psychotherapy works best .

Complementary Therapies

Some people find relief with complementary approaches like acupuncture, massage or mindfulness practices .  These therapies are usually used alongside traditional treatments and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Self‑Care and Lifestyle Changes

In addition to professional treatment, lifestyle changes can improve depression symptoms :

• Regular exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins and can improve mood .

• Healthy sleep habits: Aim for consistent sleep and avoid oversleeping .

• Balanced diet: Nutrient‑rich foods support overall health and energy.

• Limit alcohol: Alcohol is a depressant and can worsen symptoms .

• Social connection: Spend time with supportive friends and family; isolation can exacerbate depression.

• Stress management: Techniques like mindfulness, meditation and yoga reduce stress and promote emotional regulation .

When and How to Get Help

If you recognise symptoms of depression in yourself or a loved one, do not wait.  For mild depression, guided self‑help or exercise may be suggested ; for moderate or severe depression, talking therapies, medication or a combination may be recommended .  A GP can refer you to local mental health services, or in many regions you can self‑refer .

Emergency: If you or someone you know has thoughts of self‑harm or suicide, seek immediate help by contacting your local crisis hotline.  In the United States, you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.  In the UK, call 999 or speak with your GP or emergency services.

How Synara Therapy Can Support You

At Synara Therapy, we understand that depression can affect anyone—from entrepreneurs and executives to students and parents.  We provide confidential, evidence‑based therapy tailored to your unique needs.  Whether you prefer face‑to‑face sessions in London or secure online sessions anywhere in the world, we offer flexible scheduling and a free 15‑minute consultation to help you decide if therapy is right for you.

Our services include:

• CBT and EMDR for depression, anxiety and trauma.

• Couples and family therapy to address relationship dynamics.

• Performance therapy for high‑achieving professionals dealing with stress, perfectionism and burnout .

• Sessions in English, Turkish or Spanish, ensuring cultural sensitivity and comfort.

Depression does not have to define you.  With the right support, you can rediscover joy, resilience and purpose.  Contact us today to book your consultation and begin your journey towards healing.

References:

• NHS. Treatment – Depression in adults. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/depression-in-adults/treatment

• NHS. Symptoms – Clinical depression. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/clinical-depression/symptoms

• Mind. Depression. Available at: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/depression

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Depression. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression

• Cleveland Clinic. Depression: Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9290-depression