Depression (major depressive disorder) treatment | Psychologists in Turkey

Depression : Major depressive disorder

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a complex and widespread illness that profoundly affects both the brain and the body.

Contrary to popular belief, depression is not merely a temporary state of sadness. It can have a serious impact on a person's ability to function and lead a normal life.

Characterized by depressive episodes that can last from a few weeks to several years, depression presents a range of emotional and physical symptoms, often severely affecting daily functioning and overall well-being.

Forms of depression

Depression comes in many forms:

Causes of depression

Depression can result from several factors, among which we can distinguish:

Social factors

Some people with depression experience hardship during their childhood. These promote the onset of depressive disorders in adulthood. Usually, it could be a childhood badly lived with parents, sexual abuse, etc.

Grief is a normal reaction to the loss of a loved one. However, this reaction can become a real depressive phase if it lasts more than two weeks.

We can also add to these factors:

• Dismissal;
• Romantic breakup;
• A family or professional problem;
• Chronic illness or disability;
• Alcoholism, smoking, or dependence on other addictive substances.

Genetic factors

Due to a genetic vulnerability, some people are more likely than others to have depressive disorders. We are not all the same when it comes to psychological pain. Some of us take it better than others.

For example, a person with a depressive parent is four times more likely to develop depression.

It is important to know that this vulnerability only manifests itself in the presence of unfavorable environmental factors. The combination of social and genetic factors most often leads to depressive disorders.

Neurobiological factors

The brain of a depressive person has irregularities in neurotransmitters such as dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin.

According to studies, the density of the gray matter in the limbic system in depressive patients is decreased. This decrease is even greater in patients who have suffered from depression for more than three years.

This irregularity in the brain structure is followed by a deterioration of cognitive functions such as attention, flexibility, or vigilance.

Symptoms of depression

There are two types of symptoms a depressive person shows:

Physical symptoms

The most common physical symptoms of depression are:

• Depleted energy or hyperactivity.
• Intense general fatigue.
• Sleep disorder: Insomnia or hypersomnia.
• Appetite disorder: Either the patient eats too much, or he does not eat at all.
• Decreased libido.
• Unexplained pain: headache, abdominal pain, stomach pain.

Psychological symptoms

The most observed psychological symptoms in people with depression are:

• Sadness.
• A loss of interest in their favorite activities.
• Lack of self-confidence, feelings of failure or guilt.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Difficulty in decision-making.
• Suicidal urges.

Side effects of untreated depression

More than just a feeling of sadness, depression is a mental disorder with far-reaching consequences that affect not only the sufferer but also those around him or her. Far from being limited to the risk of suicide, its harmful effects are felt in many areas of life.

Effects on physical health and daily life

• Repeated absences from work (abandonment of post, sick leave).
• Disabling muscle and joint problems.
• Insomnia or hypersomnia.
• Complaints.
• Decreased sexual performance.
• Alcohol and drug abuse
• Self-medication with sleeping pills.
• Reduced physical activity, leading to metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease.

Postpartum depression may also lead to the onset of depressive disorders in children.

Effects on cognitive and motor function

Depressive disorders are accompanied by feelings of exhaustion, often exacerbated by insomnia or hypersomnia. Sleep disorders affect the following functions

• Motor skills: loss of energy, decreased libido, slower motor skills.
• Intellectual functioning: memory lapses and learning difficulties.

How can you help someone with depression?

If someone you care about is suffering from depression and you want to help, here's what you can do:

• Talk to this person, and make sure he's aware of his problem.
• Explain that depression is a mental health disorder that can be treated by a doctor specializing in psychiatry.
• put in your mind that this person is suffering from an emotional problem, so don't be too hard on him.
• You have to be patient: It takes time for a depressive person to be able to open up to you. Once the person lets you know how he is feeling, don't try to comment on their situation. At this level, you just have to listen to him, understand him, and reassure him that he is not alone in this struggle.

You cannot cure your friend or loved one's depression. However, you can encourage him to see a doctor or a psychotherapist. You can also refer him to Turkey Santé for advice. So, He can get a free quote from the best depression treatment clinics in Istanbul, Turkey.

Treatment of depression in Turkey: the steps

You cannot cure depression overnight. The treatment of depression involves the following steps:

Medication Management (Antidepressants)

Over three to six weeks, this first phase consists of administering antidepressants to the patient. These medications act on the brain's neurotransmitters to help regulate mood, appetite, sleep, and energy.

Patient stabilization

This consolidation period, which lasts from six months to a year depending on the severity of the depression, is designed to stabilize the patient's condition and minimize the risk of relapse. It may include continuation of medication at a reduced dosage, coupled with regular psychological follow-up.

Psychotherapy support

After the biochemical phase, psychotherapy is essential to help the patient regain a positive sense of self and life. This phase, which varies in length depending on individual needs, allows the patient to:

• Identify and modify negative thought patterns.
• Develop coping mechanisms for difficult situations.
• Increase self-esteem and self-confidence.
• Cultivate healthy, enriching relationships.

Healing from depression takes time, patience, and personal commitment. The support of a competent mental health professional is crucial in guiding the patient through this process and enabling him or her to regain a lasting sense of well-being.

How to avoid relapse after recovering from depression

Stopping treatment prematurely, even after symptoms have disappeared, is a major factor in relapse in panic disorder patients. To stabilize the condition and prevent future attacks, treatment must continue even after symptoms have improved.

Only the treating physician or psychotherapist can make the decision to discontinue treatment. This decision is based on a rigorous assessment of the patient's condition and the complete resolution of symptoms. Gradual, supervised withdrawal is essential to avoid sudden relapse.

In addition to medication, therapies such as group therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can provide valuable support. These therapies enable patients to better understand their disorder, develop coping mechanisms, and manage anxiety-provoking situations.

Treatment of depression in Turkey: what are the benefits?

If you choose to spend a medical stay in Turkey to cure your depression, you can be sure that you will have:

• Anonymity: all the proceedings are done anonymously if you wish so. Respecting your medical confidentiality is a priority
• Your autonomy and privacy are guaranteed
• ISO certified clinics and hospitals accredited by JCI
• Interpreters trained in psychotherapy at your disposal
• Very high success rates (close to 100%)
• Highly qualified doctors with several years of experience
• Quality medical care

Management of major depressive disorder in Turkey

Turkey has established itself as a leading destination for the treatment of depression, offering patients access to quality care at competitive prices. Our partner clinics and hospitals are staffed by internationally renowned psychiatrists and psychologists who specialize in the treatment of depression and mental disorders.

Our clinics offer a variety of treatments, from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to antidepressants and alternative therapies (light therapy, meditation, etc.).

Turkey also offers an enchanting environment to relax while enjoying state-of-the-art medical care.