10 facts everyone should know about depression

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Depression can and should be fought. And the more we know about it, the easier it is to do it. Remember the following facts to help yourself or your loved ones.

1. Depression can be inherited

Scientists today are considering the likelihood of a biological predisposition to depression. Sections of our DNA may be linked to this disorder by Ariana Eunjung Cha, according to new research. … Based on data from the 23andMe research company, experts have counted about 15 genes that may contribute to the development of depression. These same genes are involved in the formation of nerve cells in the brain.

2. It is a physical illness

In addition to emotional manifestations, depression causes distinct physical symptoms. Under the influence of this mental disorder, people often lose their appetite, experience headaches and suffer from insomnia.

3. Scientists continue to find promising new treatments

Psychological help really works. A recent study found Jeffrey Kluger's behavioral activation can be an effective and inexpensive treatment for depression. … This is a new method of talking therapy in which patients are taught to cope with the factors that cause depression and not to get hung up on them. And some evidence suggests that even online talk therapy Kasley Killam may be beneficial. …

To increase the effectiveness of therapy, it can be supplemented with drugs. Psychiatrists help to design individualized treatment programs that are most suitable for specific cases.

4. Depression is a common problem

According to statistics from the World Health Organization, this disease affects about 350 million people worldwide. World Health Organization. … Depression is one of the main causes of disability.

5. This is a serious hindrance to work

One of the inherent signs of depression is a loss of motivation, which can affect a person's working life. Researchers from the University of Michigan estimate that the decline in productivity due to this disorder in the United States alone costs employers $ 44 billion annually at the University of Michigan Depression Center. …

6. No one is immune from depression

She, like any mental disorder, can affect anyone. Depression doesn't look at age, social status and nationality. Stars like Catherine Zeta-Jones, Kate Middleton and Andre Agassi speak openly about their experiences with mental health problems.

7. She tarnishes her reputation

Mental disorders are still surrounded by negative stereotypes. The names of different states of mind are often used as insults or used frivolously in conversations. Many also unreasonably associate mental illness with cruelty. This behavior exacerbates their misperceptions in society.

8. Many people keep depression to themselves

Fear of shame or judgment often silences people who are in pain. Studies show that this fear prevents people from getting the help they need Patrick W. Corrigan, Benjamin G. Druss, Deborah A. Perlick. … First of all, this applies to the male half of humanity. According to 2015 data, men are more likely to hide suicidal thoughts.

9. In the worst cases, it leads to suicide

Mental disorders can be a serious problem. For this reason, medical attention and compassion are essential. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 90% of suicides are affected by the National Alliance on Mental Illness. …

10. Depression does not define a person

This state is not a flaw, it does not make a person inferior. Cancer and diabetes do not shape personality, and the same can be said for depression. Appropriate treatment can help manage this disorder. Regardless of it, a person can live a happy, healthy and fulfilling life.

What to do

If your heart is hard, do not despair and do not close in yourself - act. Seek support from loved ones and contact psychologists. Or become yourself a support for your neighbor, if you notice that he needs help. Depression is not a sentence; it can and should be fought.