Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management of Depression: A Report

This report provides a comprehensive overview of depression, a common mental health disorder. It begins by defining depression and outlining its prevalence, particularly among women. The report details the signs and symptoms, including mood changes, loss of interest, appetite changes, sleep disturbances, and thoughts of suicide. It explores the biological, genetic, environmental, and psychosocial factors believed to contribute to the development of depression. The investigative process, including physical exams, lab tests, and psychiatric evaluations (DSM-5), is explained. The report further discusses the referral process to specialists such as general physicians, psychotherapists, counselors, dieticians, and physiotherapists, outlining their roles and responsibilities. Available care services, including mental health centers and 24-hour nursing care, are also addressed. Different treatment options, such as psychotherapy, medications (antidepressants, antipsychotics), and electroconvulsive therapy, are examined, along with the importance of monitoring and adapting to the illness. Finally, the report discusses coping strategies and potential long-term outcomes associated with depression. This assignment, contributed by a student, is available on Desklib, a platform offering AI-based study tools for students.