Introduction to Depression.

Many people use the word ‘depression’ when they find that people are sad, aggrieved or lonely. Feeling sad or lonely is not depression. Depression (say di?pre SH?n) is a more serious mental health condition that has real signs and symptoms, and can result in many other health complications and mental disorders if not treated.

It is very natural that a person feels sad when a loved one dies, or when a misfortune happens, or when there is a break-up in a relationship. Everyone feels that from time to time, and the feeling wears of with time and care.

Depression however, is more complex, yet very common. It can stay with a person for weeks, months and even more. It is estimated that 1 in 10 people have depression at some point in life. It affects men and women, young and old. In America, over 9 million adults suffer from clinical depression each year.


What is depression?
It is a condition of mental disturbance, usually with lack of energy and difficulty in maintaining concentration or interest in life. It affects a person’s moods, feelings, behavior, thoughts, actions and general state of mind and can negatively affect a persons’ emotional and physical health.

Typically, people with depression find it hard to go about their day-to-day activities, and may also feel that life is not worth living.

Depressive disorders often co-occur with anxiety disorders and substance abuse. It has been observed that women between the ages of 25-44 are most often affected by depression. Major cause of depression in women has been linked to their inability to express or handle anger.

Recent study shows that depression can also affect children. About 4% of children aged five to 16 affected by depression in the UK.

Depression affects about 121 million people worldwide and contributes to approximately 850,000 deaths by suicide each year. WHO

It is possible for a person to have depression without knowing it. In this lesson, we shall look at some basic facts and tips on depression and what people can do to help themselves or others who have it.