Depression: a word that carries with it a heavy burden, one that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It is a silent epidemic, often concealed behind a smile or masked by a facade of normalcy. This pervasive mental health issue is a complex web of causes and consequences, demanding our attention, empathy, and, most importantly, solutions. Depression is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how we feel, the way we think, and how we act. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease one’s ability to function at work and at home.
Depression is not a fleeting emotion or a simple bout of sadness. It is a debilitating mental illness that affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. The pervasive impact of depression is evident in its alarming prevalence and its far-reaching consequences. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression, making it the leading cause of disability globally. Depression is also a major risk factor for suicide, accounting for over 800,000 deaths each year. The prevalence of depression is alarming, and it has far-reaching consequences, not only for individuals but also for society as a whole.
Depression is not solely the result of a single cause, but rather a complex interplay of factors. The causes of depression are complex and not fully understood, but researchers have identified a variety of factors that can contribute to its onset, including: genetics, brain chemistry, life events, medical conditions, and substance abuse.
Depression can run in families, suggesting that there is a genetic component to the disorder. Imbalances in certain brain chemicals, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, are also thought to play a role in depression. Traumatic or stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one, job loss, or financial problems, can trigger depression. Chronic medical conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, can increase the risk of depression. The abuse of alcohol and drugs also leads to depression or worsen existing symptoms.
Talking to someone we trust about how we are feeling, seeking professional help from a doctor or mental health professional, getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding alcohol and drugs are some measures that experts say one can do if struggling with depression. This column does not claim to have the expertise or authority to suggest remedial measures in addressing depression or mental health issues but it strongly advocates for collective action towards this pervasive but silent epidemic. To begin with, we need to speak up against the stigma associated with depression.