Depression 

by John Nguyen

What is depression?

Depression is a mental disorder that has been with mankind since the beginning of time. It is a severe form of melancholy  that is triggered by large amounts of guilt and conflict in one's life.

Depression is a huge health problem in the world, and affects 10% of adults, 8% of teens and 2% of pre-teen children.

 

Causes of Depression

• Certain illnesses• Certain medicines that may

cause depression as a side effect

• Heredity• Hormonal changes• Lack of sunlight, fresh air, or

exposure to nature• Major stresses• Negative thinking patterns• Changes in brain chemical

levels

All of these cause strain in the human mind and may lead to depression by causing grief and anguish.

4 main neurochemicals- norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine

Sources of Stress

• Harsh environment• Being bullied, picked on, or

teased• Loss of close friends or

family members• Financial Issues• Sudden change in someone's

life that makes it much different

• Ethnicity• Low self-esteem/confidence• Unemployment, divorce,

anxiety, and family

Studies have shown women are twice as likely to suffer from depression as men, possibly because of sexual history, maternal-fetal stress, and sexism within society.

Signs of Depression

• Sadness• Hopelessness• Inability to concentrate on

life• Indecisive• Suicidal thoughts• Actual physical ailments with

unknown causes• Pessimism• Feeling worthless and/or

helpless

• Eating Problems• Fatigue in everyday life• Less contact with family and

friends / self-isolation• Stress• Violent mood shifts• Trouble socializing• Sleeping problems• Self-Destruction behavior • Actual physical ailments with

unknown causes• Sleeping problems

Social Effects of Depression

Depression is a serious condition that can impact every area of your life. It can affect your social life, your family relationships, your career, and your sense of self-worth and purpose.

"Depression is not just the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain, and is not simply cured with medication. Experts believe that depression is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. In other words, your lifestyle choices, relationships, and coping skills matter just as much—if not more so—than genetics." (Smith)

Depression in Men

Depression is a loaded word in our culture. Many associate it, however wrongly, with a sign of weakness and excessive emotion. This is especially true with men. Depressed men are less likely than women to acknowledge feelings of self-loathing and hopelessness. Instead, they tend to complain about fatigue, irritability, sleep problems, and loss of interest in work and hobbies. 

Other signs and symptoms of depression in men include anger, aggression, violence, reckless behavior, and substance abuse. Even though depression rates for women are twice as high as those in men, men are a higher suicide risk, especially older men.

Depression in Women

Rates of depression in women are twice as high as they are in men. This is due in part to hormonal factors, particularly when it comes to premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), postpartum depression, and perimenopausal depression. As for signs and symptoms, women are more likely than men to experience pronounced feelings of guilt, sleep excessively, overeat, and gain weight. Women are also more likely to suffer from seasonal affective disorder.

Feelings of guilt associated with depression are also more prevalent and pronounced in women. Women also have a higher incidence of thyroid problems. Since hypothyroidism can cause depression, this medical problem should always be ruled out by a physician in women who are depressed.

How to prevent Depression

• Become socially active and try to expose yourself to new people and environments

• Communicate with friends and family - they can help

• If you are already in depression, get help before it's too late- online, with therapists, counselors or trusted adults

• Join groups and clubs and get involved

• Find a passion (Music, art)

• Exercise- working out has shown to get your mind off of your sadness

• See your doctor for yearly checkups

• Call 1-888-999-9999 if someone you know need help

Bibliography

Dryden-Edwards, Roxanne, and Dennis Lee. "Depression Symptoms, Treatment, Medication, Causes,    Types, Signs and Diagnosis by MedicineNet.com."Depression. Ed. William C. Shiel. Medicine Net. Web. 29 June 2011. <http://www.medicinenet.com/depression/index.htm>.

Merki, Mary Bronson., and Donald J. Merki. Glencoe Health. a Guide to Wellness.New York: Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, 1999. Print.

Reyes, Anne. "Healthopedia.com - Depression." Healthopedia.com - Your Health Encyclopedia. Web. 29 June 2011. <http://www.healthopedia.com/depression/>.

Smith, Melinda, Joanna Saisan, and Jeanne Segal. "Understanding Depression: Signs, Symptoms, Causes, and Help." Helpguide.org: Expert, Ad-free Articles Help Empower You with Knowledge, Support & Hope. Web. 29 June 2011. <http://www.helpguide.org/mental/depression_signs_types_diagnosis_treatment.htm>.

Wagner, Karen M.D. PhD. "Psychiatric Times." June 2011.