Depression

Depression is an illness that impacts many aspects of a person’s quality of life. Depression is more than just sadness. It is a serious illness, that can alter brain chemistry. Research tells us that many factors can contribute to the onset of depression, including genetics, hormone level changes, medical conditions, stress, grief or other adverse life events. Any of these factors alone, or in combination can cause onset of depression.

Depression is a common and serious condition. The World Health Organisation characterises depression as one of the most disabling illnesses in the world, on average affecting one in five women and one in ten men at some point in their lifetime. Every aspect of daily living can be compromised by depression, the severity of depression can increase due to lack of treatment, or if it occurs in combination with anxiety, substance abuse, or other medical illnesses. When depression is promptly identified and treated, its symptoms can be manageable, and there are many effective strategies for living well, and maintaining quality of life.

Although people experience Depression differently there are some similar symptoms. Depression commonly affects thought content and process, emotion, behaviour and overall physical health. Here are some of the more common symptoms that may indicate the presence of depression.

Emotional; sadness; hopelessness; emptiness; worthlessness; guilt and shame; irritability; anger; anxiety and agitation; anhedonia (loss of interest and pleasure in relationships and activities)

Thought content and process; appraising one’s self in a negative way; difficulties with concentration; difficulties with making decisions; memory difficulties; thoughts of harming yourself

Behaviour; withdrawing and isolating away from other people; substance abuse; missing work or other commitments; attempts to harm yourself

Physical; lethargy (tiredness); aches and pains; changes in appetite; increase or decrease in appetite and weight; sleep disturbance, insomnia or sleeping to much; decreased libido

Depressive illness can isolate people from everything that is important to them, such as important relationships, engagement in enjoyable activities, work and most significantly themselves.

If you are concerned about the possibility of having a depressive or anxiety illness, and unsure of the extent of the problem and how to respond, take this simple and confidential checklist. This is not a diagnosis, however can it provide helpful advice as to what steps to take.