Understanding depression and its triggers and symptoms
Metro Creative
Many people periodically have bad days when they just seem to be in a bad mood. When a bad mood isn’t short-lived, this might be a potential indicator of depression.
Depression is a common mental disorder that, according to the World Health Organization, affects more than 300 million people across the globe.
The WHO notes that despite the fact that there are known and highly effective treatments for depression, fewer than half of those suffering from depression receive such treatments. Furthermore, in many countries, fewer than 10 percent of people with depression receive treatment.
Learning about depression and how to recognize its symptoms may compel people battling it to seek treatment for this very common and treatable disorder.
Why do I have depression?
Everyone has a bad day here or there, but people with depression may wonder why theirs are more than just a bad day. The WHO notes that depression is a byproduct of a complex interaction of social, psychological and biological factors. Exposure to adverse life events, such as unemployment, the death of a loved one or psychological trauma, can increase peoples’ risk of developing depression.
Depression also may be caused by physical conditions. The WHO says cardiovascular disease can lead to depression.
What are the symptoms of depression?
The Mayo Clinic notes that one in 10 people whose depression goes untreated commit suicide.
That only highlights the importance of recognizing the symptoms of depression and acting once any have been identified or suspected. Symptoms can include:
Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
Fatigue
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and helplessness
Pessimism and hopelessness
Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness or sleeping too much
Irritability
Restlessness
Loss of interest in things once deemed pleasurable, including sex
Overeating or appetite loss
Aches, pains, headaches, or cramps that won’t go away
Digestive problems that don’t get better, even with treatment
Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” feelings
Suicidal thoughts or attempts
Anyone who has exhibited any of the aforementioned symptoms or even those who haven’t but suspect they might be suffering from depression should visit a physician immediately.
The WHO notes there are a variety of treatments available to people who have been diagnosed with depression, and doctors will determine which might be the best for each patient.
To make that determination, doctors may inquire about the duration and severity of symptoms as well as family history and whether or not the patient has a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
Depression is a common mental disorder that too often goes undiagnosed. Seeking help the moment symptoms are detected or suspected can help people overcome the disorder.
Support Local Journalism
Support Local Journalism
Readers around the Lake Tahoe Basin and beyond make the Tahoe Tribune's work possible. Your financial contribution supports our efforts to deliver quality, locally relevant journalism.
Now more than ever, your support is critical to help us keep our community informed about the evolving coronavirus pandemic and the impact it is having locally. Every contribution, however large or small, will make a difference.
Your donation will help us continue to cover COVID-19 and our other vital local news.
Start a dialogue, stay on topic and be civil.
If you don't follow the rules, your comment may be deleted.
User Legend: Moderator
Trusted User
Healthy Tahoe: Substance misuse and medication-assisted treatment
Substance abuse has repeatedly been recorded as a leading health concern in our community during Barton’s regularly-conducted Community Health Needs Assessments. Barton’s Medication for Addiction Treatment Program, offers treatment to individuals experiencing addiction to opioids…