
Depression is a mental health disorder that affects a person's mood, thoughts, and behaviors. It is characterized by sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities a person once enjoyed. Depression can range in severity and duration from mild and temporary episodes to chronic and debilitating conditions that interfere with daily functioning.
Symptoms of depression include sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, making decisions, persistent sadness, suicidal thoughts, and changes in appetite or weight. Genetic, environmental, and psychological factors can cause depression. It is a treatable condition with various forms of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes that can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a type of depression that does not respond to standard treatments such as antidepressant medications and psychotherapy. It is the failure of at least two treatments at adequate doses and durations. TRD is a challenging condition to treat, affecting approximately 10-30% of individuals with depression. Working closely with a mental health professional to identify the underlying causes of TRD and develop an effective treatment plan is essential.
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychoactive compound found in certain species of mushrooms, known as "magic mushrooms." It has been used for centuries for its hallucinogenic properties and is currently being studied for its potential therapeutic effects on various mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety.