Dr Soumya Dash

How to Recognize the Early Signs of Depression — When to Seek Help

Everyone feels sad sometimes. But when sadness lasts for weeks, drains your energy, and makes daily tasks feel impossible, it may be more than just a low mood.
You could be experiencing depression — a serious but treatable mental health condition.

At Dr. Soumya Ranjan Dash’s psychiatry clinic in Bhubaneswar, patients receive personalized care for depression and mood disorders. Understanding early warning signs can help you or your loved one seek help before symptoms worsen.

What Is Depression?

Depression, or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), affects how you think, feel, and function. It’s not a weakness or a lack of willpower — it’s a medical condition that needs professional care.

With early intervention and the right treatment, recovery is absolutely possible.

Common Early Signs of Depression

Depression can look different in every person, but these are the most common early symptoms:

  • Persistent sadness or emptiness

  • Loss of interest in hobbies or activities once enjoyed

  • Fatigue or low energy even after rest

  • Changes in sleep — sleeping too little or too much

  • Appetite changes — eating more or less than usual

  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering things

  • Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness

  • Physical symptoms like headaches or body aches without a clear cause

If you notice several of these signs for two weeks or longer, it’s time to consult a psychiatrist in Bhubaneswar for evaluation.

What Causes Depression?

Depression has multiple causes. Often, it’s a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors:

  • Genetics: Family history of mood disorders

  • Brain chemistry: Imbalance in neurotransmitters such as serotonin or dopamine

  • Stressful events: Loss, trauma, or major life changes

  • Medical illnesses: Chronic pain or thyroid disorders

  • Substance use: Alcohol or drug misuse can worsen symptoms

Knowing the underlying cause helps your psychiatrist plan the right Depression Treatment in Bhubaneswar.

Effective Depression Treatments

Dr. Soumya Ranjan Dash offers a holistic approach that combines therapy, medication, and lifestyle counseling to help patients recover fully.

1. Psychotherapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps replace negative thoughts with healthier ones.

  • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and coping skills.

  • Mindfulness-based Therapy: Reduces stress and enhances emotional balance.

2. Medication

Antidepressant medicines may be prescribed to correct chemical imbalances in the brain. Dr. Dash carefully monitors every prescription for safety and effectiveness.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

  • Regular physical exercise

  • Nutritious diet

  • Adequate sleep

  • Social connection and support

  • Avoiding alcohol and substance abuse

These small daily habits complement professional treatment and speed up recovery.

When to Seek Help

Reach out for help if you notice:

  • Continuous sadness lasting over two weeks

  • Withdrawal from family or friends

  • Loss of interest in everyday activities

  • Thoughts of self-harm or hopelessness

Depression is not something you have to face alone. Early treatment leads to faster, lasting improvement.

Why Choose Dr. Soumya Ranjan Dash?

Dr. Soumya Ranjan Dash is a renowned psychiatrist in Bhubaneswar with years of experience in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and OCD. His patient-centered care ensures confidentiality, comfort, and long-term healing.

Contact Details

Clinic: Dr. Soumya Ranjan Dash – Psychiatrist in Bhubaneswar
Location: SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Phone: +91 9568830001

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