Depression, a depressed mood, lack of drive and physical complaints - depression is expressed in numerous symptoms. Many people suffer from seasonal depression, especially during the dark seasons winter blues known. Compared to a depression, this only occurs in the months around autumn and winter, but improves again in spring. It is usually less severe, but is also characterized by increased irritability and a negative carousel of thoughts. A leaden tiredness is often present, unlike in the case of a time-independent depression, which is more likely to be associated with insomnia. Anyone suffering from depression faces major challenges every day and the number of sufferers is increasing.

What is depression and what are depressive moods?

First, let's take a closer look at how depression is defined and how it differs from a depressive phase. A depression is in the international classification of diseases as ICD officially described and valid worldwide. According to ICD10, depression is counted among the "affective disorders" and is divided into several classes within the key, such as depressive episode or persistent affective disorders. The spectrum of effects from depressive episodes to severe depression is diverse and ranges from dejection to a high degree of loss of interest, joylessness, irritable mood, severe tiredness or insomnia to increased activity. The symptoms and characteristics are more or less pronounced depending on the severity.

According to the classification, a mild, moderate or severe depressive episode is present after symptoms have persisted for at least 14 days. The signs include a depressed mood, loss of interest, loss of zest for life, lack of drive, overwhelmed quickly and increased fatigue. Persistent depression can last for months or even years. Those affected feel tired and depressed, every day is perceived as exertion and nothing brings joy in everyday life. People are constantly brooding, complaining and self-esteem plummeting. Those affected can no longer cope with life without help.

Winter depression usually only occurs in the dark seasons and is less severe. In spring, when the days are getting longer and brighter again, this subsides again. According to the WHO, almost 5% of the Swiss population suffers from depression. There are said to be almost 350 million people worldwide. 

signs of depression

The symptoms differ and are usually very individual. In general, you can recognize a depressive episode or persistent depression by the following signs:

• Lack of energy and drive
• Rapid irritability
• Stomach and intestinal problems
• Lack of motivation and listlessness
• anxiety and panic attacks
• loss of appetite
• fatigue and sleep disturbances
• Unexplained pains in the body and head
• Sad mood
• brooding
• loss of concentration
• loss of libido

What to do in case of depression?

In the case of depression and suspected depression, it is important to see a doctor so that he can make an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan. The goal of therapy is to gradually relieve symptoms, restore quality of life, restore mental and physical health, and reduce the risk of relapse. Depending on the severity, antidepressants are often used in combination with psychotherapeutic treatment.

What are the differences between CBD and antidepressants?

Compared to taking antidepressants, CBD has no side effects. In general, there is good tolerability. CBD has no intoxicating effect. This is solely attributed to the THC and is found in high-quality CBD oils in a negligible concentration of <0.1%. If other medications are already being taken, the intake of CBD for depression should be clarified with the attending physician so that there is no interaction. Since CBD is absorbed through the mucous membranes, the effect is often rapid. According to customer reports, CBD can have a good effect as a remedy against the winter blues according to numerous customer experiences.

Depression is a serious issue and not to be neglected at all. Mental illnesses should be treated by specialists as early as possible. On this page you will find addresses to professional advice centers.