Depression Awareness
Depression Awareness by Simone Alston
It is completely normal for people to experience sadness, however if you are often dealing with feelings of unhappiness you might be depressed. Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a mental illness that affects one’s mood. The symptoms of this disorder include “constant sadness, loss of interest in hobbies, isolating from loved ones, irritability, feeling hopeless, fatigue, sleeping too little or too much, changes in appetite, and thoughts of suicide.” A person must deal with these symptoms daily for at least two weeks in order to be diagnosed with depression.
Anyone no matter their age, race, social status, and gender can experience depression, for example, about 280 million people are depressed worldwide. However, some groups are more at risk for developing this disorder such as women, young adults, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people who have relatives who are depressed.
Major depressive disorder is a challenge many individuals face, but there are treatments out there that can diminish the symptoms. With less severe cases of depression, practicing coping mechanisms like journaling, challenging negative thoughts, and meditating may make one feel happier. Going to cognitive-behavioral therapy and taking antidepressants may be successful methods for treating more severe diagnoses.
Always remember that there is help out there and you are not alone. If you or someone you know is in a crisis or needs emotional support, please do not hesitate to call or text 988 to discuss with a mental health professional.
Information Sources:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression#:~:text=Women%20are%20more%20likely%20to,world%20have%20depression%20(1).
https://www.fcc.gov/988-suicide-and-crisis-lifeline#:~:text=The%20988%20Lifeline%20provides%2024,professionals%20with%20the%20Lifeline%20network.
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