Frequently Asked Questions About Comorbid Depression

I have been a heavy metal, techno, and pop fan since I was a kid. I often heard my mother banging at my bedroom door because one of the neighbors complained about the noise coming from my side of the house. Then, Dad discovered noise-canceling headphones and gifted me a pair one day. It solved everyone’s problems — seemingly without any kind of risk.

When I was in high school, I saw a DJ perform at a school dance once and got fascinated by the job. It meant that I could mix my favorite songs from different genres, which was not too common when it came to my favorite ones. I worked hard after turning 16 years old and bought my first DJing equipment on my 17th birthday.

Despite my parents’ desire to become a doctor or lawyer (like my father), I chose to become a DJ. I still went to college to have a fallback plan for the future, but I took classes part-time and went on different gigs almost every night. Wherever you could hear loud, heart-thumping music, I was there. 

A man wearing glasses is playing as a DJ in a club
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Before I got my biggest break, though, I woke up with significantly reduced hearing. Scared, I called my mother, and she brought me to a doctor. That’s when we found out that I had progressive bilateral hearing loss (PBHL) – a typical noise-induced disorder. Mom was too nice not to say, “I told you so,” but I knew that’s what was in her mind because that’s what I thought as well. If I listened to them, I might still be able to hear well now.

The news devastated me so much that I eventually got depression, too.

What Does This Kind Of Condition Mean?

Comorbid depression refers to the type of depression where it co-exists with another form of illness, either psychological or physical. It has been known that people who live with chronic diseases and conditions that cause people a lot of pain and restriction are more susceptible to mental illness such as generalized anxiety disorder, anxiety spectrum disorders, panic disorder, and other conditions. There are many different scenarios where mental illness is found. 

What Are The Symptoms Of It?

Comorbid depression, also known as depression with co-occurring disorders, refers to the presence of mental illness along with one or more other mental or physical health conditions. It can come as part of anxiety disorders or many other problems with mental health. Here are some of the symptoms of this:

  1. Feelings of sadness or hopelessness: These are classic symptoms of depression, and they may be more intense with depression.
  2. Anxiety: Anxiety often accompanies depression, and it can be particularly pronounced in cases of mental illness.
  3. Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, oversleeping, or other sleep disturbances are common symptoms of mental illness, and they can be exacerbated when depression is comorbid with other disorders.
  4. Changes in appetite: Comorbid depression may lead to changes in appetite, such as overeating or undereating.
  5. Fatigue: People with this often feel tired or lacking in energy, which can make it difficult to function in daily life.
  6. Difficulty concentrating: Depression can make it hard to concentrate, and this symptom may be more pronounced with depression.
  7. Physical symptoms: The diagnosis of depression can lead to physical symptoms, such as headaches, body aches, or digestive issues.

Symptoms May Vary

It’s important to note that the symptoms of this disorder can vary depending on the co-occurring disorders involved. For example, depression and anxiety often co-occur, but comorbid depression with bipolar disorder may have different symptoms than the mental health problems with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A mental public health professional can help identify the specific symptoms of your condition and develop a psychiatry treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs. For example, you’ll need different treatments for depressive disorder with comorbid anxiety than with something else.

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What Is This Condition?

Comorbidity is when a person is diagnosed with multiple disabilities, either physical or mental. This is most common in cases of depressive and anxiety disorders, and mental illness. It can also be found when someone is experiencing a physical disorder or disease combined with another mental illness or condition. With this, it is also implied that these two disorders or diseases can make the other worse in time. 

Is Depression A Comorbidity?

Yes, depression can be a comorbidity as it exists alongside other illnesses or disorders. It can also be one of the developed conditions due to having a specific physical disease, mainly when the disability is acquired from traumatic events. Studies have shown that people who have physical disabilities have twice as much risk of developing mental illness as those who do not have a disability or disorder. 

Who Will Most Likely Suffer From This Condition?

There are many different reasons for depression, and anyone can suffer from depression. Anxiety and depression are more prevalent than most people realize. According to the World Health Organization, as early as ten years old, a child can already have depression that may go undiagnosed and untreated. Another study also shows that people between 45 and 65 are actually at a higher risk. Apart from age, people who are physically disabled are twice the risk of developing mental illness, such as major depressive disorder due to their already existing conditions. So, there is not a specific type who suffers from depression and anxiety. 

What Does A PTSD Attack Feel Like?

Many different things can trigger PTSD attacks or anxiety, such as car horns or an ambulance siren sound. These attacks can happen at any point during the day, and they can make you feel so disoriented as you will feel as if you are back in that moment in time. You will feel all of the same emotions during that day when you experience an attack due to the disorder. So basically, you will be right back in that moment of a terrifying time in your life, and you will feel every bit of emotion you felt that day. 

What Are The Four Types Of PTSD?

There are five types of PTSD; however, one is not considered a basic form of PTSD, so it is now down to four. First is Acute Stress Disorder, which is characterized by a panic reaction, confusion, and disassociation. There is also Uncomplicated PTSD, which is characterized by persistent attacks, emotional numbing, and an increase in arousal. Then there is Comorbid PTSD where it can co-exist with other disorders and illnesses. Finally, Complex PTSD is characterized by its behavioral difficulties. 

Is Asthma Also Included?

Comorbidity is defined as additional illnesses to already pre-existing or existing chronic illnesses affecting health. With asthma being a chronic and long-term illness, it can be considered comorbidity. Other illnesses or disorders can occur simultaneously as asthma, which can be dangerous if left untreated. 

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What Are Examples Of This?

An example of comorbid depression is when a person is diagnosed with mental health problems and anxiety disorder at the same time. Another example can be a person with cancer who is now diagnosed with a mental illness. In both cases, one illness or disorder can affect the other and worsen as time goes by. There can be different ways of experiencing comorbidity but make sure that you can reach out to a doctor for the help you require when this starts to happen.

How Are These Disorders Treated?

There are several different ways of treating comorbid depression that has all been found safe and effective. Of course, treatment will depend on various factors, such as age. There are different therapy types intended for the youth, and there are different sets of therapy for older patients. Before you go out and fix things yourself, make sure that you consult with a doctor to get the best evidence treatment plan.

Which Condition Is Associated With The Highest Rate Of This Condition?

In a study published in March 2020, it has been found that among the most common comorbidities with depression are anxiety, schizophrenia, and other personality disorders. Of course, there is also a connection between physical disabilities and depression as comorbidity. People who live with disabilities double their chances of developing a mental illness, so mental illness among the physically disabled is also high.

Why Is It A Problem?

Comorbid depression has been considered an issue because a person is now living with two or more illnesses or disorders simultaneously. These disorders and diseases affect each other, leading to these illnesses and conditions worsening over time. Some diseases or disorders may have psychiatric treatments or drug medications that can be harmful when done or taken simultaneously. Make sure that you do not self-medicate with anything to avoid getting into an even bigger problem.

Is Anxiety A Mood?

Anxiety is a feeling and can be one of the risk factors for conditions that are depressive. It is a very normal emotion for people to feel; however, when it gets too much to handle to a point where you are no longer able to function, it becomes a disorder that hinders you from living everyday life. Everyone can feel anxiety, which is okay but make sure that you are not swallowed by this feeling and make sure that it does not stop you from living life as it should be. 

Living With The Condition

Living with comorbid depression or any major depressive condition can be challenging, but there are ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are some tips for living with mental illness:

  1. Seek treatment: The first step in managing mental illness is to seek treatment from a mental health professional. Treatment options may include medication (antidepressant medications such as tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), life transition counseling or therapy, or a combination of both.
  2. Take care of your physical health: Physical health and mental health are closely linked. Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep can all help improve symptoms of mental illness.
  3. Practice self-care: Self-care activities, such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing mindfulness, can help reduce stress and improve mood.
  4. Connect with others: Social support is important for mental health. Connecting relationships with friends, family, or a support group can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide a sense of belonging.
  5. Set realistic goals: Depression can make it difficult to accomplish tasks, but setting small, achievable goals can help improve self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment.
  6. Learn stress management techniques: Stress can worsen symptoms and outcomes of depression. Learning stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, can help reduce stress and improve mood.
  7. Monitor symptoms: It’s important to keep track of symptoms and identify triggers that may worsen symptoms. This can help individuals with this condition to identify strategies that work best for them and make adjustments to their treatment plan as needed.

Remember that recovery from this condition is possible. With the right treatment and support, individuals can learn to manage symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with progressive hearing loss and depression at the same time was a challenge that no one could ever prepare for. The first few months were not tolerable at all. In truth, my parents had to file for a leave of absence on my behalf at the university because I did not even want to leave my room. I also thrashed my DJing equipment and refused to let go of my noise-canceling headphones because I was still in denial about my hearing loss. 

Source: pexels.com

Listening To Classical Music

What helped me, you might ask? Listening to classical music did the job. The lack of words and the sweet melodies broke down the walls I erected around me. It soothed my soul, practically speaking, and I got to carve a new path for myself.

If you are struggling with the aforementioned, it’s important to remember that you are not alone and that help is available. Many people who struggle with mental illness also have other mental or physical health conditions, and it’s important to seek treatment for all co-occurring disorders.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does It Affect The Quality Of Life?

What Is Depression Most Comorbid With?

What Disorders Have High Comorbidity?

Is Comorbidity A Mental Disorder?

Is Anxiety A Comorbidity?