Depression

Understanding Depression

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Depression is a common mental health condition that depresses mood affecting about 5% of people worldwide. In higher-income countries just under 15% of the population will experience depression in their lifetime, the impact of the pandemic has increased this, for example, UK statistics show that 1 in 6 people (17%) currently experience depression across the population.

 

The most common diagnosis of depression is Major Depressive Disorder or Clinical Depression however several forms of depression are linked to specific causes such as Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD (time of year) and perinatal/postpartum depression (pregnancy and birth of a child). Depression whilst primarily being classified as a disease affecting mood (emotions), it also has a huge impact on thoughts, behaviour and the body. In addition to persistent feelings of sadness, apathy and disaffection lasting at least two weeks, people with depression will experience guilt, shame, unworthiness or thoughts of being a failure. A depressed person will generally also experience a change in their behaviour particularly concerning sleep and eating and have no desire to socialise or carry out enjoyable/pleasurable activities. They may feel tired and lethargic, lose or gain weight, struggle with focus or concentration and have other physical symptoms including digestive complaints, migraines and headaches and other aches and pains. (m e n t a l w e l l n e s s l i b r a r y . c o m)

Depression Info Sheet (therapistaid.com)

Signs and Symptoms of Depression | Psychology Today

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Tips to alleviate symptoms

exercise walk, go for a bike ride, weightlift, follow an exercise video, swim, practice yoga
socialize call or text a friend, organize a group dinner, visit family, join a club / group
responsibilities cleaning / housework, pay bills, professional development, homework
hobbies sports, gardening, drawing, playing music, hiking, playing with a pet, cooking
personal care dress up, get a haircut, prepare a healthy meal, tend to spiritual needs

Coping Skills: Depression (therapistaid.com)