Depression is a mood disorder that negatively impacts how you think, feel, and act. Stigma is a set of negative and unfair beliefs that society holds about a specific group, and this shame prevents some individuals from seeking the help they need. Depression affects brain chemistry, so it can require medical attention and a treatment plan. Here is more information about depression and how understanding and discussing it can help people get the treatment they need:
Understanding Depression Causes
Clinical depression is more than just temporary sadness; it is a diagnosed medical illness that affects your mood. The brain can become unwell just like any other part of the body, because it is a physical organ. This condition requires professional care, and recovery is possible with medical intervention and potentially some lifestyle changes.
Anyone can develop this disorder regardless of their lifestyle factors or background, and approximately 5.5% of US adults in 2021 lived with serious mental illness. Since genes or altered brain chemistry cause these issues, they are not a reflection of poor character. Societal stigma may suggest that weakness causes these issues, but that is a myth, and the disease actually affects people of all backgrounds.
You may notice various physical and emotional signs of depression. Common symptoms include:
- Extreme sadness or irritability
- Loss of interest in hobbies
- Fatigue or insomnia
- Weight loss or gain
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Discussing Mental Health
Some individuals avoid this topic because they fear judgment from others, perhaps because the media often suggests that those with mental illness are violent or dangerous. These misconceptions may fuel shame, causing individuals to hide their struggles. Hiding difficulties with and avoiding treatment for mental illness may cause it to worsen over time. Talking openly about mental health may counteract the stigma surrounding these conditions, and it helps people realize they can seek treatment.
Seeking Professional Help
See a doctor if you experience a depressed mood for at least two weeks. Early diagnosis makes the condition highly treatable. Some patients respond well to traditional antidepressants because these drugs regulate chemicals in the brain. Others may require IV ketamine therapy, or they might use nasal sprays to deliver medication. About 30% of patients have treatment-resistant depression, and standard medicines fail them, so alternative therapies provide necessary relief.
Untreated conditions can lead to severe consequences. Immediate medical attention is required for:
- Recurrent thoughts of death
- Suicide attempts
- Inability to function daily
To prevent depression, it can be helpful to manage your stress in a healthy way. Getting enough regular sleep and participating regularly in self-care activities may also help.
Learn More About Depression Treatment
Mental health conditions are medical illnesses that can improve with compassion and effective care. Breaking the stigma of mental illness starts with understanding the facts, and open communication may help people with mental health issues seek treatment. With medical intervention, you may find relief from symptoms and return to your daily activities and routines. If you want to learn more about how to manage or treat depression, consult a mental health provider near you.
