We all have those days where we feel like our world is crumbling around us. Broken relationships, lost jobs, financial struggle, bad results or the death of a loved one can send someone into a series of bad days that can go from days to weeks or longer, but what about when it becomes more than that?
Depression is a hard topic of discussion for many reasons, however this has caused it to be taken lightly in today's society instead of receiving the attention it needs. Now I'm not at all saying that it's wrong to have the emotion of depression; unless you are a very lucky person, you will experience this throughout your life. However, I want to focus on medically diagnosed depression, also known as major depression or clinical depression. This type of depression is very different than the emotion and must be treated as such, though it is often seen as a form of attention seeking.
The majority of us know at least one person who is a self-diagnosed "sufferer" of depression and many social media websites seem to glorify the illness. This gives a false idea of the disorder and feeds the idea that it's okay to be depressed to whatever audience will listen.
No, it's not okay.
As said by MayoClinic, clinical depression isn't the same depression or sadness we feel after a loss, death, or other hard situations. It has a range of emotions with no limits of severity, the power to turn a go-getter into a hermit, the strength to tear apart relationships and the ability to erase every other emotion. Depression takes over the sufferer's body and mind, causing them to become an entirely different person over a period of anywhere from days to years. In some cases, depression is hidden until it is too late. Depression is like a parasite with no limits as to who, when or how it takes over. There is no age or social status exempt. Though there are many people with the condition, not everyone who suffers will directly state or express it, some may even be unaware for months, maybe even years, that they are living with the disorder.
Sometimes depression is the loudest thing we can't hear.
The reasons for depression vary from person to person as there are many different elements of the underlying cause in an individual patient. Though the root of the problem is still uncertain, studies taken at the University of Michigan suggest that genetics, medical conditions, hormonal changes and stress are just some of what is believed to alter a patient's brain chemistry in a way to cause the disorder. This can effect one's mental stability- such as thoughts, emotions and behaviors- as well as general physical health anywhere from a mild amount to a point where rehab is deemed necessary.
Luckily, many with the affliction have the resources to seek help and receive the best treatment for their personal needs. Some people take medicine, some go to therapy, some do both and some to neither. Treating or not treating depression does not make one weak; only the individual knows what is best for them. The most helpful thing you can offer to someone dealing with depression is your love and support.
Depression is not a hopeless condition. It does not make a sufferer weak or unworthy nor is it a disorder made up and glorified by social media. It has no limits, there is no person or group not at risk. It is a monster feeding off the minds of the untreated. Depression is real, and it needs attention.
To learn more about depression as well as its causes and symptoms, visit this website. If you believe you may be suffering from depression, visit your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Crisis Hotline: (212) 673-3000
Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK)
Depression Hotline: 800-826-3632
