Depression

Everyone has bad days and feels unhappy sometimes, as problems and conflicts are a part of life. Some people may even become temporarily depressed when things do not go as planned. It’s when these feelings continue on for an extended period of time and begin to interfere with one’s work, social or family life that it could be a sign of clinical depression.

Depression is a disorder that affects mood, thoughts and behaviour. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months or even years. There is no straightforward cause of depression; however, factors such as specific distressing life events, biochemical imbalances in the brain, psychological factors such as a pessimistic view of life or low self-esteem, alcohol and drug abuse, and genetic history of depression in one’s family may make one more prone to depression.

Facts

  • Once a person has been clinically depressed, he or she is more likely to suffer from depression again. Some people even experience seasonal cycles of depression (particularly in the winter). Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) (Canadian Mental Health Association).
  • Five to ten percent of people who experience depression also experience exaggerated states of happiness or elation called mania. The occurrence of both depression and mania at different times is called Bipolar Disorder (Canadian Mental Health Association).
  • Teens and young adults are the least likely to use mental health resources despite the fact that they suffer from mental health issues at a higher rate than other age groups (Statistics Canada).
  • Young Canadians aged 18 and 19 were the most likely to report high stress levels (37%) and to report being depressed (Health Canada).
  • By 2020, it is estimated that depressive illnesses will become the second leading cause of disease burden worldwide and the leading cause in developed countries like Canada (Statistics Canada).

Symptoms

  • Loss of interest in friends and activities
  • Persistent feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, sadness and anxiety
  • Loss of energy
  • Decrease in motivation
  • Change in eating and sleeping habits
  • Frequent crying
  • Irritability and anxiousness
  • Reoccurring thoughts about death and suicide
  • Problems concentrating
  • Decision making problems
  • Emotional imbalances
  • General depressed mood

Treatment

  • Medication and anti-depressants
  • Psychotherapy which can include personal or group therapy
  • Support groups
  • Cognitive behaviour therapy
  • Natural remedies
  • Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
  • Meditation and exercise

Depression can only be accurately diagnosed by a doctor or mental health professional. It is a serious medical condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. With a customized treatment plan, in consultation with your doctor, depression can be controlled.

Links

Yahoo Health Depression Information
Healing Well: information on topics pertaining to depression
Suite 101’s comprehensive depression page
Canadian Mental Health Association

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