Depression: A Serious Issue in Our Society Today
- Sep 12, 2022
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 24
You're right to take depression seriously—it's a critical topic that affects so many. We've compiled the essential information on recognizing the signs, understanding the underlying causes, and knowing exactly how to offer meaningful support. This definitive guide cuts through the noise to give you clear, actionable insights into this complex condition.
What is the defining characteristic of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)?
Major Depressive Disorder, often called clinical depression, is defined by key features like a persistent depressed mood, loss of interest in activities, significant changes in weight or sleep, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
There's so much more to uncover about depression, from the specifics of the biopsychosocial model to the wide range of effective treatment options available today. Keep reading to learn about the various therapies and practical ways you can support someone who is currently struggling, which highlights why depression a serious issue in our society.
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Depression is a serious issue that should not be taken lightly. Depression can cause people to feel isolated and alone, like they are the only ones going through it. This is not true.
Depression is becoming an increasing problem in our society today, and we need to learn how to support those who are suffering from it.
In this blog post, we will discuss the signs of depression, how to get help for depression, and ways you can support someone who is dealing with depression.
You Aren't Alone
Depression is more than just feeling down for a day or two. It is a persistent feeling of sadness and despair that can last for weeks, months, or even years. Depression can cause physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and stomach problems.
It can also lead to emotional and behavioral problems, such as withdrawing from friends and family, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, and feeling hopeless. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. Depression is treatable, and there is no shame in seeking help.
There are many ways you can get help for depression. You can talk to your doctor or a mental health professional, join a support group, or take medication. Depression is a serious issue, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help you through this tough time.
If you know someone who is dealing with depression, there are ways you can support them. You can be there for them by listening to them, offering words of encouragement, and helping them find resources to get help. Depression is a serious issue, but it is important to remember that there is hope. With the right support, people can and do recover from depression.
What is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
People often use the term clinical depression to refer specifically Major depressive disorder (MDD), which is defined by a number of key features. These include depressed mood, lack of interest in activities, weight changes, sleep changes, fatigue, feelings of guilt, difficulty concentrating, or thoughts of death and suicide.
Symptoms
Although depression may occur only once during your life, people typically have multiple episodes. During these episodes, symptoms occur most of the day, nearly every day and may include:
Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness
Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters
Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports
Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort
Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame
Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches
Causes
The biopsychosocial model proposes that biological, psychological, and social factors all play a role in causing depression. The diathesis-stress model specifies that depression results when a preexisting vulnerability, or diathesis, is activated by stressful life events.
The preexisting vulnerability can be either genetic, implying an interaction between nature and nurture, or schematic, resulting from views of the world learned in childhood. American psychiatrist Aaron Beck suggested that a triad of automatic and spontaneous negative thoughts about the self, the world or environment, and the future may lead to other depressive signs and symptoms.
Adverse childhood experiences (incorporating childhood abuse, neglect, and family dysfunction) markedly increase the risk of major depression, especially if more than one type.[5] Childhood trauma also correlates with the severity of depression, poor responsiveness to treatment, and length of illness. Some are more susceptible than others to developing mental illnesses such as depression after trauma, and various genes have been suggested to control susceptibility
Treatment Options: Why Depression a Serious Issue in Our Society
The good news is that there are many effective treatments for depression. The best approach depends on the individual. Some people respond well to medication, others to therapy, and still others to a combination of both.
There are many different types of therapy for depression. Some common approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), brain spotting, art therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based stress reduction.
The most important thing is to find a treatment that works for you. Don't give up if one approach doesn't work. Depression is a serious issue, but it is treatable. There is help out there. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, please seek professional help.
Depression is a real illness that can be effectively treated. There are many resources available to those who need help. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of. It is a serious medical condition that deserves treatment.
Hotlines and websites available if you or someone you know needs help:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK (800-273-825)
Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741741 in the United States
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: 800-273-TALK (800-273-825)
National Hopeline Network: 800-442-HOPE (800-442-467)
Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-TALK (800-273-825), then press "0" or text to connect with a VA responder 24/seven.
Disaster Distress Helpline: 800-985-TALK (800-985-825) or text TalkWithUs to 600068
Trevor Lifeline (for LGBTQ youth): 866-488-Trevor (866-488-8728)
Frequently Ask Questions:
• Is depression just feeling sad for a few days?
No, depression is much more than feeling down for a day or two. It is a persistent feeling of sadness and despair that can last for weeks, months, or even years.
• What physical symptoms can depression cause?
Depression can cause physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and stomach problems.
• What are some of the emotional and behavioral problems associated with depression?
These can include withdrawing from friends and family, losing interest in activities one once enjoyed, and feeling hopeless.
• According to the biopsychosocial model, what contributes to depression?
The biopsychosocial model proposes that biological, psychological, and social factors all play a role in causing depression.
• What are some common types of therapy used to treat depression?
Some common therapy approaches include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and mindfulness-based stress reduction.
As you've read, depression is a serious, complex issue, but remember: we are here, and you are not alone on this journey. At Chateau Health and Wellness Treatment Center, our mission is to help you and your loved ones find the path to recovery using effective, personalized treatments, as we understand that healing is a shared commitment. We encourage you to take that crucial next step toward hope and professional support. Don't let this persistent feeling of despair isolate you any longer; reach out to us today at (435) 222-5225—let us help you find the right treatment, whether it’s therapy, medication, or a combination, and begin building a healthier, brighter future together.
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About The Author
Ben Pearson, LCSW - Clinical Director
With 19 years of experience, Ben Pearson specializes in adolescent and family therapy, de-escalation, and high-risk interventions. As a former Clinical Director of an intensive outpatient program, he played a key role in clinical interventions and group therapy. With 15+ years in wilderness treatment and over a decade as a clinician, Ben has helped countless individuals and families navigate mental health and recovery challenges.