Depression
What does depression look like? What is depression?
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical condition that impairs one's emotional well-being, cognitive functioning, and behavioral patterns in many different ways. Because it is treatable, however, it is fortunate. People who are depressed may experience feelings of sadness and/or a decrease in interest in activities they used to enjoy. It can cause a wide range of mental and physical health issues, as well as impair your ability to carry out your daily responsibilities at home and at work.
The following are mild-to-severe symptoms of depression:
There may be a variety of symptoms that point to a depressive state, including sadness, loss of enjoyment in previously enjoyed activities, changes in appetite, difficulty sleeping, excessive sleepiness, decreased energy, and an overall feeling of exhaustion. If someone is having a hard time, they might show signs like being more agitated or restless (like pacing, wringing their hands), as well as slower movements and speech that can be seen by other people.
There must be a significant change in one's level of functioning for a diagnosis of depression to be made.
Every year, approximately one in every fifteen adults (6.7 percent) suffers from depression. In addition, 16.6% of people will suffer from depression in their lifetime. Depression can strike at any time, but it is most common in people between the ages of 18 and 24. As a general rule, women are more likely to suffer from depression than men. According to some research, an estimated one-third of women will go through a major depressive episode at some point in their lives. First-degree relatives, such as parents, children, and brothers and sisters, have a high rate of depression that can be passed down (about 40%).
You may be able to get out of a funk.
In terms of mental illness, depression is one of the most treatable. Approximately 80 to 90% of people with depression respond favorably to treatment. The vast majority of patients see some improvement in their condition.
There is a slew of methods available to those seeking relief from depression's debilitating effects. Regular physical activity can help lift the spirits of a large number of people. A healthy diet, regular sleep, and not drinking alcohol, which can make depression worse, can all help.
There is a medical treatment for depression. Most people who have depression will be able to get better with the help of a correct diagnosis and effective treatment.
Watch this short video to learn more about depression:
