DEPRESSION
Depression is a serious and often misunderstood mental health condition that affects people of all ages. It goes beyond temporary sadness, leading to persistent feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, and a loss of interest in daily life. Depression can impact every aspect of life, including work, relationships, and physical health, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming.Despite its challenges, depression is treatable. Through therapy and lifestyle changes, individuals can regain control and improve their quality of life. If depression is affecting your daily routine, know that help is available. Seeking support is the first step toward healing and recovery.
TYPES OF DEPRESSIVE DISORDERS
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Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
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Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)
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Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
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Prolonged grief disorder (PGD)
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Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression)
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Situational Depression (Reactive Depression)
WHAT CAN CAUSE DEPRESSION?
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Negative Thought Patterns: People with depression often experience persistent negative thinking, self-doubt, or feelings of worthlessness. These cognitive distortions can worsen symptoms over time.
Personality Traits: Individuals who are highly self-critical, perfectionistic, or prone to excessive worry may be more susceptible to depression.
Difficulty Coping with Stress: Those who struggle with emotional regulation or have difficulty managing stress may be at a higher risk of developing depression.
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Family History: Individuals with a close relative (such as a parent or sibling) who has experienced depression may have a higher risk of developing it themselves.
Brain Chemistry & Function: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine—chemicals that regulate mood—can contribute to depression.
Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, such as during pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, or thyroid disorders, can also increase the risk of depression.
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Traumatic Life Events: Experiences such as childhood abuse, neglect, the loss of a loved one, or severe stress can trigger depression.
Chronic Stress & Lifestyle: High-pressure jobs, financial struggles, or a lack of social support can increase vulnerability to depression.
Substance Use & Medications: Drug or alcohol abuse, as well as certain medications, can contribute to depressive symptoms or worsen existing depression.
WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT DEPRESSION
“It helps to know I am not alone. As I’ve had to remind myself, if you have a problem, getting help is a sign of courage, not weakness or failure…I hope down the road I can offer an example to others who are struggling.”
Ben Affleck
Lady Gaga
“Lady Gaga revealed in an interview with Oprah that she has struggled with depression, self-harm, and suicide in the past, and that Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) helped her through some of her darkest moments..”
Dwayne Johnson
“Asking for help is not a weakness. As a matter of fact, asking for help is our superpower, and men, especially us, we fall into this trap of being really adverse to vulnerability, because we always want to be strong and feel like we can take on the world."