Depression

What is Depression?
-It is an illness, which lasts for a period of at least two weeks or more and causes extreme feelings of sadness.
-It affects the ability to perform the usual tasks.
-It has been linked to the biochemistry of the brain.
-It is the most common mental illness.
Statistics about Depression
-It carries out 80% of all suicides.
-It accounts for 79% of all psychiatric diagnosis.
-15% of people with major depression commit suicide.
-It affects 1 in 5 people at some point during their lifetime.
Who does Depression Affect?
-It can affect any person at any time.
-3% of men and 6% percent of women in Ontario suffer from depression.
-About 5-12% of men and 10-25% of women will have at least one epsiode of major depression during their lifetime.
-Affects twice as many women than men.
-Women between 25 and 44 are the highest at risk.
-1 in 8 adolescents have depression.
-It affects 4 times as many people over 65.
-5 million Americans over 65 experience serious symptoms of depression and 1 million have it.
Where can Depression be Found?
-Depression can affect people around the world.
-Almost 3 million Canadians have serious depression, but less than one third seek help.
-It affects 20 million Americans.
Causes of Depression
-Financial issues
-Loss of something significant, such as a job
-Being victimized, such as assault, robbery, rape, etc.
-Relationship problems or a break-up
-Conflicts with parents or family members
-Death of someone significant
-The anniversary of a loss
-Feeling like people are taking advantage of you
-Unresolved anger or guilt
-Genetic predisposition
-Chemical imbalances
-Dealing with illness or infection
-Lack of sleep
-Chronic anxiety
-Self-critism
-Catastrophic thinking
-Low sense of self-worth
-Doubts about the meaning of life
-Questions about your own religious beliefs
Common Symptoms of Depression
-Changes in sleeping pattern
-Changes in eating patterns
-Loss of energy
-Inexplicable aches and pains, such as headaches, stomaches, etc.
-Loss of interest in activities, such as sports, hobbies, going out with friends, etc.
-Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
-Neglecting responsibilities and personal appearance
-Depressed mood, meaning feeling down, apathetic, irratible, negative, guilty, anxious, empty, etc.
-Suicidal thoughts
-Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness