Depression is much more than just sadness or a passing period of melancholy. It is a profound mental disorder that affects millions of people around the world, regardless of age, gender or social status. Characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness, lack of interest in usual activities and a significant decrease in energy, depression can have devastating effects on a person's personal, professional and social life. According to the INSP and WHO, Romania ranks 126th in the world in terms of diagnosed cases of depression, with over 10% of the population struggling with this invisible enemy.
In this context, CBD oil is the subject of many specialized studies that analyze its ability to improve symptoms of depression, through its effect of balancing neurotransmitters. at the brain level and improving general well-being.
Depression – what it is and how it manifests itself
What is depression?
Depression is a common mental disorder characterized by a persistent state of sadness or a loss of interest in activities that were normally considered enjoyable. This condition takes its toll on a person's quality of life and their ability to manage daily activities.
The manifestations of depression can vary , but the most common include:
- persistent negative emotional state : feelings of deep sadness, emptiness, or despair;
- loss of interest or pleasure : indifference to activities that were previously enjoyable, including hobbies, social relationships, or sex;
- changes in appetite and weight : decreased appetite and weight loss or, conversely, excessive food consumption and weight gain;
- sleep disorders : insomnia or excessive sleeping;
- lack of energy and fatigue : feeling exhausted almost daily;
- feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt : severe self-criticism or disproportionate feelings of guilt;
- concentration difficulties : problems making decisions or focusing on tasks;
- agitation or lethargy : slow walking, slowed speech or, conversely, restlessness and inability to sit still;
- Thoughts of death or suicide : frequent thoughts about death, suicidal thoughts, or suicide attempts.
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Causes of depression
Depression can have a multitude of causes, generally involving a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. among the most common causes are:
- Genetic factors : people who have family members diagnosed with depression are more likely to develop this condition.
- Chemical imbalances in the brain : Neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine play a key role in regulating mood. Imbalances in these chemicals can contribute to depression.
- Trauma and major stressful events : Negative life events, such as the loss of a loved one, divorce, financial problems, or any type of abuse, can trigger depression.
- Medical conditions : Certain conditions, such as hypothyroidism, cardiovascular disease, or cancer, may be associated with an increased risk of depression. Some medications can also have side effects that include depressive symptoms.
- Psychological and personality factors : People with certain personality traits, such as dependency on others, pessimism, or severe self-criticism, are more prone to depression. Also, people who lack effective coping strategies or who have a negative self-image are more vulnerable.
- Environmental factors : a stressful environment, lacking social support or marked by continuous conflicts can contribute to the development of depression.
- Various substances : abuse of alcohol, illegal drugs, and even some prescription medications can lead to or worsen depressive symptoms.
- Changes in circadian rhythm : Sleep problems and changes in the body's natural rhythm, such as those experienced during seasonal changes or when changing time zones, can also trigger depressive symptoms.
Diagnosing depression
Depression is a complex disorder that is diagnosed clinically, meaning there are no specific blood tests or other tests to confirm the presence of this condition. The diagnostic process can be complicated by overlapping symptoms with those of anxiety disorders or conditions such as thyroid dysfunction or endocrine disorders.
To diagnose depression, doctors use a set of questions and instruments outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. These instruments help assess the severity and frequency of specific symptoms. A diagnosis of depression requires that the symptoms are severe enough to cause significant impairment in the person's daily life, affecting daily activities, social relationships, and job performance. Therefore, the assessment must be complete and consider all relevant aspects, ensuring that the symptoms are not attributed to other medical or psychological causes.
CBD oil and the reasons for its effectiveness in relieving symptoms of depression
CBD oil (cannabidiol) is increasingly being used as an alternative treatment for various conditions, including depression. Although research in this area is still in its early stages, there are several reasons why CBD oil may be effective in relieving symptoms of depression:
Interaction with the endocannabinoid system
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) helps maintain the body’s physiological balance, influencing mood, sleep, appetite, and many other processes. It is made up of endocannabinoids, specific receptors for these compounds, and enzymes that regulate the levels of these substances. ECS receptors interact with endocannabinoids to regulate various body functions. CBD, unlike THC, does not bind directly to these receptors, but influences the system in an indirect way. For example, CBD oil can inhibit enzymes that break down endocannabinoids, thereby increasing their natural levels in the body and enhancing the manifestation of beneficial effects, such as reducing anxiety and improving negative moods.
Additionally, CBD oil also interacts with other receptors in the brain that are not part of the SEC, such as those that secrete serotonin. This may alter the way serotonin is processed in the body, having antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.
