Depression
Around 21 million adults in the U.S. had at least one major depressive episode based on SAMHSA data from 2020 - this is about 8.4% of all adults. The prevalence of a depressive episode was almost 2x higher in women than men, and 18-25 year olds were the most affected.
4.1 million adolescents (12-17 year olds) in the U.S. had at least one major depressive episode based on SAMHSA data from 2020 - that is 17% of the adolescent population. It was almost 3x higher in women than men.
It’s likely these statistics are higher and post-2020 likely also shows some different mental health percentages. I’m not sure if those statistics are staggering for you or not, but I know mental illness can affect us more than we may realize.
Depression comes in many forms from major depression to dysthymia (mild depression) to seasonal affective disorder. Depressive episodes are also a part of bipolar disorder. This mood disorder may start out of nowhere, or it can come after a loss. Therefore, there isn’t just one cause of depression - it comes from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. We may be more susceptible or vulnerable to develop a mental illness based on genetic factors (though there isn’t a “depression gene''). Then our environment and life experiences add in other factors that can eventually result in a depressive episode or disorder.
There are many symptoms or indications of depression. All forms of a depressive disorder experience some of the following (Dattani et al., 2021):
Problems sleeping
Some loss of appetite
Reduced attention and concentration
Feelings of guilt and decreased self worth
Pessimistic views of the future
Self-harm urges or suicidal ideation
Reduced confidence and self-esteem
Furthermore, using MRI technology, we can see what the brain of someone with depression looks like versus someone who doesn’t have depression. The parts of the brain that are responsible for appetite, behavior, thinking, and mood seem to function abnormally. We don’t currently know whether this is the cause or effect of depression (Psychology Today).
Depression is complex and doesn’t just affect an individual mentally. As listed above, loss of sleep and appetite are common. Our immune system can be impaired and weight gain or loss are common. Oftentimes, anxiety accompanies depression as well, which can add another layer of physical implications (Psychology Today).
There is no shame in having depression. It is common for many people during some point in their lives. It is also very treatable! It should start with an exam by a doctor - they will want to rule out medical conditions that can cause the same symptoms as depression (i.e., a thyroid disorder or viral infection), as well as medications that can cause a person to feel emotionally low. Once a diagnosis is given, there are many treatments available - most commonly medication and psychotherapy, which can be provided together (Psychology Today).
If you are dealing with depression, you are not alone. Please seek help. As always, our Soul Medics are available to chat by texting 494949.
References:
Dattani, S., Ritchie, H., Roser, M. (2021). Mental Health. Our World in Data. Retrieved from https://ourworldindata.org/mental-health#depression.
Depression Center. Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/depression.
Challenges/Points:
Depression is common within our adult and adolescent population. It is more common in women than men.
There are many symptoms of depression, including sleep issues, loss of appetite, self-harm urges, etc.
Depression is very treatable! Talk to a doctor if you’re experiencing some of the listed symptoms about some available options.
Questions:
Have you ever been diagnosed with depression or dealt with depressive episodes?
Are there any of the listed symptoms that you feel you resonate with right now?
Have you ever talked to family, a friend, or a doctor about your mental health, particularly regarding depression?
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