What is depression?
Depression is a serious, yet treatable, mental illness. It goes far beyond temporary sadness and affects mood, drive, thinking, and the body over an extended period.
Many affected individuals describe a feeling of inner emptiness, meaninglessness, and exhaustion that cannot simply be 'shaken off'. This is precisely why professional treatment is so crucial – depression is not a sign of weakness, but an illness with clear treatment options.
What are the symptoms of depression?
Depression manifests both mentally and physically. Common symptoms include:
- persistent low mood and despondency
- loss of interest and pleasure
- lack of drive and rapid exhaustion
- changes in sleep and appetite
- problems with concentration and decision-making
- feelings of worthlessness or guilt
If several of these signs persist for more than two weeks, a specialist medical evaluation is advisable.
What causes depression?
Depression usually arises from a combination of several factors: biological changes in the brain, psychological stressors, and external triggers such as loss, overwhelm, or chronic stress. Rarely is there a single cause, making an individualized approach to each life situation all the more important.
Welche Prognose kann ich erwarten?
The prognosis is good: Most people affected improve significantly with psychotherapy and/or medication. The earlier treatment begins, the better.
What are the risk factors for depression?
- previous depressive episodes
- family history
- chronic stress and overload
- stressful life events and losses
- social isolation
- physical illnesses and hormonal changes
What are the treatment options for depression?
Depression can be effectively treated today. Depending on the severity, treatment combines psychotherapy, medication if needed, and – in suitable cases – modern procedures such as ketamine-based therapy. The key is a plan tailored to the individual's situation, rather than following a rigid scheme.
Welche Vorbeugungen können getroffen werden?
Preventive measures include early treatment of depressive phases, a stable daily routine, exercise, social contact, and – for recurring episodes – targeted relapse prevention.
Specialist Doctors, Therapists, Specialists.
Psychiatry & Psychotherapy
Specialist Medical Care
Regeneration & Longevity
Addiction & Withdrawal
Wie verläuft der typische Zeitablauf?
Untreated, a depressive episode often lasts weeks to months and can recur. With treatment, its course is usually significantly shortened.
Welche Komplikationen können auftreten?
Possible complications:
- chronic or recurrent course
- withdrawal from work and social life
- co-occurring anxiety or substance use
- in severe cases, suicidal crises – immediate professional help is then needed
How does Clínica Es Castell help with depression?
The German-speaking psychiatrists and therapists at Clínica Es Castell in Palma take the time needed for a thorough diagnosis and treatment – without waiting lists, without assembly-line medicine. Treatment is available inpatient, outpatient, or online throughout Europe.
For treatment-resistant cases, we offer ketamine-based therapy under medical supervision. You can find more about our approach in the section Psychiatry & Psychotherapy; for accompanying exhaustion, we also work with Regeneration & Longevity together.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
How to recognize depression?
By persistent low mood, loss of pleasure, and lack of drive, often accompanied by sleep, concentration, and appetite disturbances.
Is depression curable?
It is very treatable; most affected individuals become symptom-free or significantly more stable with therapy.
Where can I find help in an acute crisis?
In case of acute danger, dial 112; the telephone counseling service is also available 24/7 at 0800 111 0 111.
Finde mehr Informationen
- IQWiG / gesundheitsinformation.de – gesundheitsinformation.de
- German Depression Aid Foundation – deutsche-depressionshilfe.de
- AWMF S3 Guideline "Unipolar Depression" – awmf.org
- Telephone Helpline (free, 24/7: 0800 111 0 111) – telefonseelsorge.de