Depression: The Facts
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 121 million people around the world suffer with some form of depression: a staggering figure. While many people use the term “depressed” loosely, depression is a debilitating condition that has the potential to completely incapacitate the sufferer if not properly treated.
We have seen an increase in depression over the years. Covid was very scary for a lot of people. Staying in and the loss of many jobs contributes. Many of us have a hard time staying in the present moment and are future tripping, creating false narratives and stories that keep us in a constant state of fear and anxiety.
What is depression?
Put simply, depression is a mood disorder that can manifest itself in a number of different ways. True depression is very different to what many people experience when they describe themselves as depressed: it involves experiencing a persistent low mood for weeks, months or years. The way in which depression manifests itself varies from person to person: while some will feel tearful, others will feel sad or hopeless, or will find that they lose interest in the things they enjoy the most. Symptoms can also be physical, including changes in appetite and sleeping patterns, a reduced sex drive and general aches and pains.
Depression: The Facts
The Causes of depression
Anybody can develop depression, and it often stems from a trigger event such as the loss of a job, the death of a friend or family member, an illness or other bad news. Women can also suffer as a result of menopause or childbirth, but the overarching cause is still not known. It is suggested, however, that there could be a genetic predisposition towards depression in some people.
Some of the main causes:
- Social Media
- Grief and loss
- Drug use and/or behavioral addictions
- Loneliness and isolation
- Brain Chemistry
- Chronic Illness
- Genetics
- Low Self Esteem
- Excessive Stress
- Abuse
- Relationship Problems
- Poor Nutrition and Lack of Being Active
- Loss of Job/Relocation
The Effects of Depression
Depression can have devastating effects if not treated. It can cause suicidal thoughts, which risk being acted upon, and can cause sufferers to take prolonged periods of absence from work, risking their jobs. It can have a negative effect on personal relationships, and can lead to an increased risk of other illnesses. For these reasons, it is important to diagnose and treat depression as early as possible.
Other Effects of Depression
- Feeling helpless, guilty or hopelessness
- Fatigue and increase in energy
- Body aches, headaches, cramps
- Inability to sleep well or excessive sleep
- Loss of interest in things that used to bring you joy
- Weight gain or weight loss
- Feeling empty and anxious
How to combat or treat depression
Treatment of depression exists in many forms. Some sufferers will be prescribed antidepressants, while others will find that psychological therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help. Severe depression may be treated with Electro convulsive Therapy (ECT) as a last resort. However, there are also natural methods that have proven successful.
Natural Ways to Prevent or Treat Depression
Some sufferers find that regular exercise helps to boost their mood, while others have reported that a change in diet can help. Increased levels of sleep can also help to negate some of the effects of depression, while alternative therapies such as yoga and acupuncture may prove successful for some. Supplements such as St. John’s Wort are a popular choice among those with milder forms of depression – but bear in mind that no two sufferers are the same, and a doctor should be consulted to ensure that each individual receives the right treatment for them.
Other Ways to Help Treat Depression:
- Meditation
- Mindfulness
- Find a Routine and Stick to it
- Keep accountability partners around you
- Stay off of social media
- Start moving around and get some exercise.
- Adopt a pet
- Change your diet
- Keep negative and toxic people out of your life.
Depression: The Facts
Seek help today. Here at High Expectations Counseling we have trained therapist that are ready to help assist you to regain control of your life. I know it may seem hard to pick up the phone. It is the start to reaching out and climbing out of the dark hole. You are made of light and infinite unconditional love. Depression brings us out of alignment with our true self. Call us today at 407-967-1327. Let’s start getting your life back. Live one that is full of peace, joy and clarity. You are worth it.
