Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by severe and persistent sadness, numbness and a variety of physical and emotional symptoms. It is not simply a short-lived feeling of low mood or sadness, but a deeper condition that affects everyday living and functioning.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of depression can vary, but the most common are:

• Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness
• Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleep)
• Appetite changes and weight loss or weight gain
• Difficulties with concentration, decision-making
• Feelings of inadequacy or guilt
• Feeling restless or irritable
• Physical symptoms such as headaches or digestive problems
• suicidal thoughts or attempts

What causes it?

The causes of depression are complex and consist of several factors:

• Biological factors:Genetic predisposition, neurotransmitter imbalance.
• Psychological factors: Past trauma, stress, experiences of loss.
• Environmental factors: Social isolation, family problems, stress at work.
• Health factors: Chronic illness, hormonal changes.

What are the consequences?

Untreated depression can have serious consequences:

• Physical health:Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, weakened immune system.
• Mental health:Anxiety, panic attacks, suicide risk.
• Social life: deterioration of relationships, reduced work performance, social isolation.
• Quality of life: General dissatisfaction with life, reduced quality of life.

What is your medical treatment?

Treatment of depression is complex and individualized, usually involving:

• Pharmacological treatment: antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, etc.)
• Psychotherapy: cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), psychodynamic therapy.
• Estyle changes: Regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep.
• Additional treatments: Mindfulness, relaxation techniques, art therapy.

tVNS - vagus nerve stimulation

Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is a relatively new, non-invasive method of treating depression. tVNS works in several ways:

1. Regulation of neurotransmitters:By stimulating the vagus nerve, it affects levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which play an important role in mood regulation.

2. Modifying brain activity: tVNS affects brain activity, particularly in areas involved in the regulation of mood and emotion, such as the prefrontal cortex and limbic system.

3. Anti-inflammatory effect: Stimulation of the vagus nerve reduces inflammation throughout the body, which may play a role in the development and maintenance of depression.

4. Autonomic nervous system balance: tVNS can help activate the parasympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system, which counteracts stress responses and promotes relaxation.

TVNS may be an effective method of treating depression, especially for those who do not respond well to conventional treatments.