Facts About Depression

DEPRESSION is one of the most common mental disorders. It affects around 121 million people worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) projected that depression will be the second leading cause of world disability by 2020.

Depression is a mental disorder that presents with feelings of extreme sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, decreased energy, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, disturbed sleep or appetite, and poor concentration.

Clinically, there are three primary types of depression: major depression, minor depression (dysthymia), and bipolar depression (manic depression). Other types of depression include seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and post-partum depression.

Here are important facts about depressions reported by the WHO and other mental health organizations:

• Depression is a serious medical condition but it’s still confused with ordinary sadness.

• Biological evidence of depression can be seen in brain scans, which show abnormal activity levels. Key brain chemicals that carry signals between nerves also appear to be out of balance in depressed people.

• Anyone from any ethnic background, age, sex or class can develop depression.

• Depression is twice as common in women as in men, but it may be that women are more likely to seek help.

• It’s often first noticed in the late teens or 20s, but an episode can develop at any age.

• In the Philippines, one out of five can experience some episodes of depression.

• Worldwide, one out of twenty experience episodes of depression

• Depression will be the second largest killer after heart disease by 2020 – and studies show depression is a contributory factor to fatal coronary disease

• 41 percent of depressed women are too embarrassed to seek help

• 80 percent of depressed people are not currently having any treatment

• 15 percent of depressed people may commit suicide

• Hard and painful personal experiences can trigger depression, or it may develop out of the blue

• Stress can also contribute an episode of depression

• The signs and symptoms of depression are

o Feeling sad, anxious or “empty” inside
o Decreased energy
o Loss of interest in activities you like
o Sleep difficulties
o Appetite/weight changes
o Difficulty concentrating
o Irritability or shortness of temper
o Aches and pains
o Inappropriate guilt
o Thoughts of death/suicide

• You are not alone in experiencing depression. There are people who are willing to help

• Depression can be treated. Consult with a psychiatrist who can prescribe the right medication

• Studies show the best treatment is combining medication and talk therapy

• Depression can be prevented. Thinking positive will help, as well as exercising or having a hobby. Confiding to family and friends is also a big plus. There are other more ways to manage stress.

It is also beneficial to talk about your own experiences. It shows solidarity with others who experience depression. It is important to make other people understand about mental health and disorders to break down the discrimination and stigma.

Read the full article here: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/lifestyle/2016/04/15/facts-about-depression-468069

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