Depression: Basic Questions and Answers Everyone Should Know

The number of people with depression and anxiety disorders in the world is constantly increasing: in 1990 there were 416 million sufferers in the world, in 2013 their number increased to 615 million, and according to some estimates, as of 2020 it is the second world health problem .

Depression is a disease characterized by mood disorders such as prolonged sadness, inability to enjoy previously pleasant things or activities, and mental pain. It affects the performance of the simplest everyday tasks, sometimes with devastating consequences for relationships with family and friends and the ability to earn a living. In order to be diagnosed with depression or a depressive episode, these symptoms must last for at least two weeks.

Stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness, including depression, lead to later recognition of the problem and delay in seeking help, which causes treatment to take longer and can lead to more serious consequences such as suicide.

Depression is a disease that affects people of all ages, all social classes and all countries of the world, and it is not a sign of weakness. It increases the risk of developing other non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, and the depression that occurs in a woman after childbirth can affect the development of the newborn. On the other hand, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases increase the risk of depression.

What is depression?

Depression is a common and serious mood disorder that can affect the family, social, love and business aspects of life as well as how a person perceives himself. Depression affects not only a change in mood and/or loss of interest in all or most of the previously enjoyed activities, but also includes other symptoms. The normal rhythm of sleep can be disturbed, so that people suffering from depression have difficulty falling asleep, often wake up during the night, sleep too much or too little. A change in appetite and, accordingly, body weight, then problems with concentration, indecisiveness, loss of energy or a feeling of fatigue are possible. Negative intrusive thoughts can often appear, accompanied by feelings of worthlessness and guilt, the need for isolation and withdrawal from society, and in the most severe forms of depression and suicidal ideas, intentions and plans, he writes. Citymagazine.

What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression is a specific form of depression that, according to estimates, occurs in one in seven mothers. In addition to the usual symptoms of depression, there may also be decreased interest and attachment to the baby or anxiety about the baby and caring for it. Because of this, mothers may feel guilt, shame and lack of self-confidence. In such moments, the support of family and surroundings is of great importance. It is important to understand that the symptoms of the disease are not part of the person's personality and that it is a temporary condition for which there is treatment. Adequate therapy is important for the mother to feel better and to establish a better relationship with the baby. This usually involves psychotherapy, while in milder cases counseling by a psychologist is sufficient.

Can depression also occur in children?

Depression rarely occurs in children before puberty. During adolescence, it is a little more frequent and can affect the fulfillment of developmental tasks and significantly interfere with social and personal life. In addition to symptoms characteristic of depression, it is necessary to pay attention to irritability, dissatisfaction, tantrums and somatic complaints of adolescents. They may have problems at school, neglect personal hygiene, have reduced self-confidence and a negative outlook on the future. Adolescents struggling with depression have an increased risk of abusing psychoactive substances, which is why it is especially important to provide adequate help and support. If you as a parent notice these symptoms, try to talk to your child and determine if you need to seek professional help. If you are a teenager and think you are depressed or know someone who is, get help. Talk to a school psychologist, parents, friend, teacher or other person you trust.

What is depression not?

Depression is not the same as sadness. Grief is an emotion that most people feel at some point in their lives. Whether the cause is the end of a friendship, a relationship, or the loss of a job, grieving occurs as a normal reaction to a certain event. Grieving people do not question their self-worth, usually do not isolate themselves from society, and are able to enjoy everyday activities. In contrast, depression does not always have to be preceded by an event. It is possible that such people have everything they want, and yet they cannot feel the satisfaction and joy of it. Depression lasts much longer than grief and implies the existence of other symptoms that interfere with daily functioning.

How do I know if I have depression?

Only a mental health professional can diagnose depression. If you notice that depressed mood, loss of interest and pleasure and other symptoms that are characteristic of depression last longer than two weeks, you may have depression. If you feel that these symptoms interfere with your daily functioning or affect your love, business, family or social life, you should seek professional help. It is especially important to seek professional help if you feel that your symptoms are getting worse, if you think that life is not worth living, that it would be easier for those around you to be gone, or if you are thinking about suicide. It is important to get the correct diagnosis in order to design a treatment plan and get the right help.

How can I help myself if I struggle with depression?

Try not to withdraw into yourself, confide in close people and talk about how you feel. Try not to make important decisions when you feel bad. A healthy diet, a regular sleep rhythm and moderate physical activity can contribute to a better general condition. However, if you feel that you do not have the strength for it, do as much as you can in a way that will not further disturb you. Some responsibilities can be postponed, and it's okay to ask for help with activities that make you uncomfortable. Avoid using psychoactive substances and alcohol. Try to do something for yourself that would please you, rest and adhere to the therapy prescribed for you.

How can I help a loved one suffering from depression?

Educate yourself about depression so you can understand more about what the person is going through. Try to understand that sometimes she will not be in the mood to socialize, and in such moments do not insist on joint activities. Talk, offer support, ask how you can help and encourage her to seek professional help if necessary. Refrain from giving advice, criticizing and judging.

Who do I turn to for help if I have depression?

Your best bet would be to consult a mental health professional who works in your area. Psychiatrists, psychologists and psychotherapists are trained to recognize depression and help you feel good and comfortable again.