Depression can occur more than once in a person's lifetime. The signs and symptoms may differ from the previous occurrence. By identifying and understanding various signs and symptoms, early treatment can be initiated. What signs should be noticed? Here are the signs to pay attention to:

• Quick to anger and easily irritated

• Loss of interest in favorite hobbies

• Decreased motivation to do things

• Thinking or speaking more slowly than usual

• Difficulty concentrating

• Changes in sleep patterns (difficulty sleeping or sleeping more)

• Withdrawing from social environments and cutting off contact with relatives

• Tendency to feel sad, anxious, cry, or even despair

• Feeling worthless, guilty, or undeserving

• Fatigue in performing daily tasks

• Weight loss or gain

• Headaches, stomachaches, or unexplained muscle pain

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide (including severe depression symptoms)

Symptoms of depression relapse can vary from the previous occurrence but may also be similar.

Triggers for Depression Relapse

If someone has experienced depression before, the triggers for depression relapse are often more specific than those who have not experienced it before. However, it can also occur due to a combination of several factors, such as a series of specific events accompanied by unexpected triggers. Some common triggers for depression relapse include:

• Life pressures: death of a loved one, job layoffs, relationship breakups, upcoming exams, etc.

• Illness: from mild to chronic diseases.

• Hormonal changes: puberty, menopause, and pregnancy.

• Family issues: divorce, conflicts, children no longer living in the same house, and moving homes.

• Substance abuse: alcohol and drugs.

• Medication: not completing treatment fully for a previous episode of depression or stopping treatment prematurely.

Tips to Prevent Depression Relapse:

1. Complete the treatment: completing the treatment significantly reduces the risk of relapse, especially for six months after treatment initiation.
2. Mindfulness-based therapy: helps identify negative thought patterns and find ways to overcome them.
3. Seek support from loved ones: inform family and friends of symptoms and signs to be aware of and receive help as early as possible.
4. Journaling: write thoughts, behaviors, and emotions in a journal to help identify changes.
5. Strengthen oneself: external support is needed, but self-strengthening is equally important.
6. Prepare for relapse: no one wants to experience depression relapse, but preparing oneself is helpful to take appropriate action.
7. Build a good routine: get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and maintain a balanced and nutritious diet.

Treatment for Depression Relapse

If the symptoms and signs are identified, the main step is to seek professional help. Professionals are the right people to assist in the treatment of depression relapse. Usually, a combination of psychotherapy and medications will be employed. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor the progress of the plan and make adjustments if needed.

Relapse of depression can occur during or after treatment. The triggers vary from internal to external factors. The best way to prevent depression relapse is to complete the treatment, strengthen oneself, and be prepared for the risk of relapse. Do you have any tips to share? Share them in the comments!

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