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ccording to World Health Organisation depressive disorder or depression is a common health condition characterised by loss of pleasure or interest in activities for prolonged periods. It can make people suffer at any age, in any situation and at any time. Depression can be caused by multiple factors like social, psychological, genetic, family stress and adverse life events. Poverty and unemployment, even hormonal changes, can cause depression. Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine can contribute to the development of depression, affecting mood and emotional well-being.
People may experience a variety of symptoms including low mood or sadness, changes in eating habits, feeling of hopelessness, low self-esteem, irritability, lack of motivation, urge to cry, difficulty concentrating and can find it difficult to make decisions.
It is estimated that 3.8 percent of the world population experiences depression, approximately 280 million people worldwide. More than 700,000 people commit suicide every year. The global economic burden of mental health is estimated to rise from $2.5 trillion in 2010 to $6 trillion by 2030. Research suggests that rate of depression varies from 22 per cent to 60 per cent in Pakistan.
Depression is 50 per cent more common in women, a leading cause in Asian women is post-partum depression as Asian women due to cultural causes seek less emotional support. If it remains untreated, it can cause long-term psychological issues in the woman and developmental issues in her baby. Post-partum depression is often taken as a way of seeking attention and neglected.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, women are 1.5 to 3 times more likely to suffer from depression. Several factors contribute to this increased risk, including hormonal fluctuations and postpartum depression. Women are also often more emotionally attuned and may focus more on negative experiences, which has been linked to higher rates of depression. Globally, more than 10 percent of pregnant women and those who have recently given birth experience depression.
Depression does not resolve on its own. Simply being around someone who is also feeling sad will not magically alleviate the symptoms or cure the condition. Without proper treatment and care, depression can persist or worsen over time. Untreated depression can last for weeks and months, even years.
To sum up, the disparity in depression rates between women and men can be attributed to a combination of biological, psychological and social factors. Women are generally more susceptible to emotional issues, which contributes to their higher likelihood of experiencing depression compared to men.
Depression does not resolve on its own. Simply being around someone who is also feeling sad will not alleviate the symptoms or cure the condition. Without proper treatment and care, depression can persist or worsen over time. Untreated depression can last for weeks and months, even years.
Many individuals actively manage their depression through medications, psychotherapy and other treatments. While some symptoms of depression may improve on their own, others may require professional treatment depending on the severity and type of depression.
The first and foremost step that should be taken in overcoming depression is moral support, giving space and understanding. Clinically, it is treated by psychotherapy, also known as counseling, that involves new ways to get back to life. There are certain antidepressants given for 4 to 8 weeks depending on the condition and the type of suitable medicine varies from person to person. Antidepressants change the brain chemistry (basically the substances released by brain contributing depression). It should be kept in mind that overuse of antidepressants increases the risks of health issues so these should be taken with doctor’s consultation and in particular dose prescribed.
Non-pharmacological management (lifestyle modifications) can also help people overcome depression. These include physical activity, good sleep, healthy diet, socialising and avoiding addictions like smoking, alcohol etc. Prioritising activities one enjoys and staying connected to loved ones can help too.
The writer is a freelance contributor