Reports by the World Health Organization show that depression affects more than 300 million people globally; its rising prevalence can be partially attributed to lack of knowledge.
Depression was not seen as a serious medical condition until relatively recently, so to increase awareness on depression we’ve put together this list of 10 facts everyone should know about the medical condition.
Here Are 10 Important Facts about Depression
Depression Is A Medical Condition
According to the WHO, depression is among the most misdiagnosed medical conditions worldwide. Victims tend to assume they are simply going through a rough patch that will pass with time.
Depression should not be taken lightly and should be taken as seriously as any medical condition – seek professional help as soon as the symptoms appear to ensure full recovery.
2. Depression Can Have Multiple Triggers
Although depression is a legitimate medical condition, its causes vary from individual to individual and have no one-size-fits-all solution.
Depression in children may result from family, social or school-related stressors such as fatigue, anger or anxiety – even from routine changes that disrupt their everyday routine.
However, those with a family history of depression have an increased chance of succumbing to it at some point during their lives and many question if depression is hereditary.
3. Depression Can Affect Anyone
Contrary to popular belief, children can also become victims of depression. Depression has long been considered an adult condition.
However, children can also be affected by depression; particularly those exposed to violence, trauma, maltreatment or any other stressful environments. Therefore, it is vitally important that we closely monitor children and their respective behaviors.
4. Depression Is Harmful For Our Bodies
While it might be hard to accept, depression can have serious repercussions for your physical wellbeing. A depressed individual is more likely to develop cardiovascular conditions and stomach ailments when compared with someone without this condition.
Physical conditions may also contribute to depression. An individual living with an illness could become increasingly stressed out over their condition and eventually develop symptoms of depression due to overthinking and stressing about it.
Depression often leads to suicidal thoughts which, if left unaddressed, can have fatal results.
5. Physical symptoms may signal depression Shortness of breath, stomach upsets, physical tension and headaches can all be indicators that you might be depressed – depression has an immediate physical implication which manifests itself through various physical ailments.
Mental health conditions frequently manifest physically. Therefore, it’s wise to remain on guard for unusual body pains or physical discomfort that might indicate problems in one’s mental wellbeing.
Once unusual symptoms persist, seeking medical assistance immediately is imperative. Early diagnosis is your best hope for effective depression treatments.
Depression Is an Invisible Illness
Over the years, depression has evolved into a serious illness with potentially lethal outcomes if left untreated immediately.
Social media makes detecting depression increasingly challenging. Victims may deny the existence of their condition making diagnosis even harder.
Depression can strike anyone at any age or status; therefore, it’s vital that loved ones regularly check up on one another to assess any possible signs.
7. Depression Can Be Treated
While depression may not be curable, it can be treated successfully with medication and therapy; two such solutions being among the most successful remedies available today.
As soon as depression is identified, treatment should commence immediately. An inpatient depression center can provide both medical and physiotherapy treatments that will assist with managing symptoms effectively.
People often make the mistaken assumption that depression will vanish over time. While mild cases can sometimes resolve themselves over time, should symptoms continue to exist it is essential to seek medical assistance immediately.
8. Untreated depression has adverse outcomes Seeking treatment for depression – even mild forms – is the safest way to avoid unwanted outcomes such as death or drug dependence. Depression victims are frequently overwhelmed by emotions, making it easy for these individuals to form drug dependency issues.
Alcohol and marijuana are among the most frequently-prescribed antidepressant drugs, making it nearly impossible for depressed victims to make rational decisions while impaired.
9. Depression Can Reoccur
Even with the best possible treatments available, depression may still reoccur. Leading a healthy life and building meaningful relationships will help protect against its return.
Recovered patients should seek professional guidance regularly in order to prevent the return of conditions or emotions which caused depression in the first place.
10. Depression Reduces Quality of Life
Over time, victims of depression find it increasingly difficult to maintain relationships and secure employment. They often resort to withdrawing into themselves which only compounds their depression further. Furthermore, children diagnosed with depression find it challenging to meet school demands.
Depression must be managed early to ensure its effects do not take their toll on victims’ lives. To combat its symptoms, it is key to promote an atmosphere of communication among loved ones and ensure you give each of them enough quality time and interaction.
Although communicating about issues does not completely eliminate depression, regular dialogue prevents personal issues from spiraling out of control. Even those considered highly successful require an effective support network in their life.
WHO suggests creating a culture of regular communication through counseling and social interactions to ward off potentially fatal depression. You can receive treatment for your depression at Honey Lake.
As all individuals can become vulnerable to depression at some point in life, it is wise to implement preventative measures in order to stave off this condition during more emotionally draining parts of our lives. With many lifestyle changes available that can ease depression symptoms such as maintaining good social health and regular interaction with trusted friends and family as well as sharing any stressors which could potentially lead to depression.