Living with Depression?
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What is Depression
Depression is a mental health disorder that is mostly characterized by continually depressed moods or loss of interest in activities, or other people. The constant feeling of hopelessness, sadness, or despair that takes over the daily routine can lead to serious impairments of an individual's life.
7,1 %
of the US population have
experienced a depressive
episode at least once.
18-25
year-old individuals experience
major depressive episodes
more often.
50 %
of all people diagnosed with
depression are also diagnosed
with an anxiety disorder.
“When you’re depressed you don’t control your thoughts, your thoughts control you. I wish people understood that.”
Sherry Amatenstein (2019)
Types of Depression
Depression can be broken down into two main types: major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder.
The more severe form of depression is a major depressive disorder. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness and symptoms do not go away on their own.
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) on the other hand is a milder but chronic form of depression. Symptoms have to be tracked for at least two years in order to make this diagnosis.
Common causes for Depression
Family history - you are more likely to develop depression when you have a family history of depression.
Childhood Trauma - events in your early childhood may affect the way your body reacts to stress and fear.
Medical Condition - certain health conditions may put you at risk to develop depression, such as chronic illness, pain, or insomnia.
Drug abuse - a history of drug or alcohol abuse can increase the risk of depression in individuals.
Stressful events - Losing a loved one, a divorce, or losing a job can also increase the risk of depression.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression has many different symptoms, which can differ widely. While some people experience mild and temporary episodes, others may experience strong and ongoing depressive episodes. Symptoms can include:
-
Feelings of hopelessness
-
Lack of interest in activities
-
Lack of appetite and weight changes
-
Changes in sleeping behaviour
-
Anger and/or irritation
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Constant lack of energy
-
Self-loathing
-
Reckless behaviour
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Problems to concentrate
-
Unexplained pains and aches
More about Depression
6 lifestyle choices to boost your brain health.
Latest research developments on mental health.
Emotions and the Brain.
