WHAT IS DEPRESSION?

  • Depression is a serious yet treatable mood disorder.
 
  • In the United States, depression is on the rise.
    • ​Depression among 12 to 17 year olds increased from 8.7%-12.&% - the most of any age group – between the years 2005 to 2015.

 

  • Depression is caused by a combination of genetic (family history), biological (illness, medications), environmental (poverty, violence) and psychological (life changes, trauma, stress) factors.

 

  • People of all ages and backgrounds experience sadness from time to time, but when those feelings last for prolonged periods and interfere with daily functioning, there may be an underlying medical concern that needs attention.
 
  • Depression feels different from person to person yet the overall impact is the same.
    • Depression negatively affects how you think, feel and handle daily activities. At its worst, depression can lead to suicidal thoughts and actions.

 

  • Poor lifestyle habits such as  poor sleep, overworking , lack of leisure time and fun recreational activities can contribute, and worsen , a depressive episode.

 

  • Depression is a treatable condition, and most individuals who suffer from depression can benefit from a healthy lifestyles of regular exercise and good nutrition.




Course: Understanding Depression
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