What is Depression?

What is Depression and Why This Common Mental Disorder Can Lead to Suicide

Causes of depression, people who are most affected by depression, and treatment for depression  

Among mental disorders, depression is one of the most common mental health disorders worldwide, affecting over 280 million people globally. In fact, the World Health Organization has estimated that about 5% of adults are suffering from depression, which has led to over 700,000 suicides each year. The severity of this depression has made it the leading risk factor for suicide and makes it a dangerous disorder to leave untreated. To prevent suicide, it's critical to understand what depression is. What are the causes of depression? What are the signs of depression? And what are the effects of depression? 

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What is Depression?
 

Depression is a mental disorder that causes a persistent low mood, feelings of sadness and a loss of interest in enjoyable activities. Severe symptoms can lead to poor sleeping habits, eating disorders and abnormal work habits. A diagnosis of depression is usually made when symptoms persist for more than two weeks.

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Causes of Depression

While causes of depression can vary, contributing factors are either genetic, environmental or psychological.
 

Genetic Causes of Depression – A biological relative with depression can increase the likelihood of developing depression. Also have a gene variant could result in depression.

Environmental Causes of Depression – Severe childhood trauma, traumatic events, major life changes, consistent life stresses and medication can cause depression. Employment problems, relationship / social conflicts.

Psychological Factors that Cause Depression – low self esteem, easily stressed, not optimistic, pain without a physical diagnosis.  

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