It is a serious medical illness that affects one’s thoughts, feelings, behaviour, mood and physical health. It may be a lifelong condition in which periods of wellness alternate with recurrences of illness. Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide with more than 350 million sufferers, according to the World Health Organisation. The number is growing in all age groups in every community, and with many young people falling prey to depression.
Types of depression
Severity can vary from person to person.
Severe depression is when almost all of the nine symptoms mentioned above are present. Symptoms will markedly interfere with your normal functioning.
Moderate depression is when more than 5 symptoms mentioned above are present. Normal functioning is impaired between mild to severe.
Mild depression is when 5 or fewer symptoms of those mentioned above are present. Normal functioning is mildly impaired.
Complications of depression
Untreated depression can result in emotional, behavioural and physical health problems. Complications include:
- Excess weight gain or obesity, which can lead to heart disease and diabetes. Depressed people often try to feel better by eating more.
- Alcohol abuse
- Anxiety, panic disorder or social phobia
- Family conflicts and relationship difficulties
- Work or academic problems
- Social isolation
- Suicidal feelings – suicide attempt or suicide
- Self mutilation – such as cutting the wrist
Community
Condition
