On average, one in six people will experience depression at some stage of their lives? With numbers as these, I wonder if you have or are experiencing depression or you know someone who does. My goal on for this podcast is to encourage, equip and empower you; however, it can never replace therapy, so if you or someone you know is struggling, please seek the support that is needed. C.S Lewis quoted “Mental pain is less dramatic than physical pain, but it is more common and also harder to bear. The frequent attempt to conceal mental pain increases the burden: it is easier to say “My tooth is aching” than to say “My heart is broken.”
Australia has one of the highest suicide rates in the world, especially in the under 25-year-old age group. Depression is also high among Indigenous Australians who are twice as likely to commit suicide than non-indigenous Australians. Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and in any one year, approximately 1 million people have depression.
At some point in life, everyone will experience feelings of sadness or depressed like feelings; however, it’s understanding the signs as to whether we are experiencing these universal feelings or a possible mood disorder. Symptoms may vary from minor to severe, which can be disabling regardless. Some symptoms are insomnia, oversleeping, poor appetite, overeating, repressed anger, irritability, fatigue, restlessness, low libido, isolating self from others, inability to experience pleasure, poor concentration, low self-esteem, becoming less efficient and are less talkative than usual.
The predisposing factors of depression can be guilt, anger, rejection, disappointment, low self-esteem, hyper mental activity, biological malfunctions, childbirth, after a serious illness, frustration and even loss. Taking into consideration depression often runs in families and understanding your family of origin can be helpful. Alcohol and drug abuse addiction, in general, can also be major causes of depression. Research suggests that continuing difficulties such as living in an abusive or uncaring environment, long-term isolation and loneliness and long-term unemployment are more than likely to cause depression than recent life stressors. Also taking into consideration mental and physical factors.
Some of the different types of depression are:
- Clinical depression, which is also called major depressive disorder, unipolar depression or simply depression.
- Perinatal depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
To learn more about the types of depression, you can head over to Beyond Blue
Different types of depression require different types of treatment which can range from lifestyle changes, regular physical exercise, support to psychological and medical treatment. Today’s episode aims to create awareness around depression and possible symptoms. If you are experiencing depression, I encourage you to seek the support you deserve. If you are experiencing a crisis in Australia, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 and if life is in danger call 000 or the equivalent to where you are residing.
On a finishing, note take good care of yourself and if you have any topic that you would like me to cover, let’s get in touch.
