Useful information for taking depression seriously (and why it matters)

We must be taking depression seriously. It negatively affects so many people worldwide and can result in death. If you are in crisis, please seek help.

taking depression seriously pic 1 - woman looking upset sitting on sofa

Useful information for taking depression seriously (and why it matters)

Introduction

Depression is a common mental disorder that affects millions of people around the world. Despite its high prevalence, depression is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. This is partly because many people do not take depression seriously.

Depression is more than just feeling sad or down. It is a severe condition that can profoundly impact your life. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it is essential to seek professional help.

If you are in crisis, you can always get help, even if you do not have access to a doctor. In the USA, please call or text 988. Life and crisis lifelines are available 24/7.

As I always say, I am not an expert as far as a Psychiatrist or a Therapist, but I am an expert in dealing with depression from my real-life experiences. I have researched depression extensively to help myself and my friends find coping skills.

Trigger warning: Information about Suicide

Defining depression

Depression is a serious medical condition that can profoundly affect every area of a person’s life. It is more than just feeling blue or down in the dumps. Depression is persistent sadness and hopelessness. That can last for weeks, months, or even years.

It can interfere with work, school, and personal relationships. People who are depressed may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, withdraw from friends and family, and have difficulty concentrating and making decisions.

The causes of depression

Depression can be debilitating and make it hard to function in everyday life. Taking depression seriously is the first step in getting the help you need. There is no one cause for depression but many. Here are a few

Alcohol and drugs
Family history
Giving birth
Illness
Loneliness
Stressful events

Alcohol and drugs – Although alcohol and drugs feel like they relax you, some chemicals can affect your brain and cause depression.

Family history – If someone in your family has suffered from depression, you are at a greater risk.

Giving birth – Some women experience depression after giving birth. There are many changes in hormones that may cause depression.

Illness – If you have been diagnosed with a severe disease like a heart condition or cancer, you will face many challenges that can increase your risk for depression

Loneliness – Being isolated from family and friends is very difficult. Increased sadness

Stressful events – Experiencing something traumatic like an accident, a break in a relationship, or a form of abuse can lead to depression.

The symptoms of depression

Depression can seriously impact a person’s life, and it is essential to be aware of the symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of depression include

Emotional Symptoms

Emptiness
Feeling pessimistic
Fixating on past mistakes
Frustrated
Guilt
Hopelessness
Irritated
Sadness
Self-blame
Tearfulness
Worthlessness

Physical Symptoms

Back pain
Change of appetite
Fatigue
Headaches
Higher risk of heart disease
Joint pain
Muscle aches
Poor sleep schedule

Why we should take depression seriously

Depression is a serious medical condition that can profoundly affect every aspect of a person’s life. It can cause problems with functioning at work, school, and family. Depression can also lead to disinterest in or avoidance of hobbies.

One of the most tragic consequences of depression is suicide. Over 700 000 people die due to suicide every year, according to World Health Organization.

Depression can lead to suicide for several reasons. People who are depressed may feel hopeless and see no other way out of their misery. They may also believe their loved ones would be better off without them.

Depression can also lead to impulsive behavior, resulting in a person acting on their suicidal thoughts before they have a chance to change their mind.

It is important to take depression seriously and get help if you or someone you know is struggling with it. If you are feeling suicidal, please reach out for help.

Conclusion: How to get help for depression

In conclusion, it is important to take depression seriously and get the help you need. Depression is an actual illness that we can treat.

If you are feeling depressed, talk to your doctor or mental health professional. You can also call a helpline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 1-800-273-8255.

It can be challenging to know how to deal with depression, but some things can help. It is important to take depression seriously and to get help if you are feeling depressed. There are many resources available to help you deal with depression. Get help and take care of yourself.

Please like and share on social media to spread awareness of depression.