10 facts about depression, which everyone should know

Since depression can and should fight. And the more we know about it, the easier it is to do it. Be aware of the following facts to help yourself or your loved ones.

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1. Depression can be inherited

Today, scientists are considering the likelihood of a biological predisposition to depression. According to new research, some parts of our DNA may be linked with this disorderAriana Eunjung Cha.Large DNA study using 23andMe data finds 15 sites linked to depression. Based on the data research company 23andMe experts have counted about 15 genes that may contribute to the development of depression. These genes are involved in the formation of nerve cells in the brain.

2. This is a physical disease

In addition to emotional displays, depression causes physical symptoms clearly. Under the influence of a mental disorder, people often lose their appetite, experience headaches and suffering from insomnia.

3. Scientists continue to find new promising methods of treatment

Psychological assistance really works. In a recent study it was found out that an effective and inexpensive means of depression can be a behavioral activationJeffrey Kluger.A New Depression Treatment Shows Promise. This new method of talk therapy, in which patients are taught to deal with the factors that cause depression, and not to dwell on them. Some evidence suggests that the benefit may even conversational therapy onlineKasley Killam.The Need for Human Connection in Digital Mental Health Care.

To increase the effectiveness of therapy, it is possible to add drugs. Psychiatrists help to create individual treatment programs are best suited for specific occasions.

4. Depression - a common problem

According to statistics from the World Health Organization, this disease affects about 350 million people around the worldWorld Health Organization. Depression. Fact sheet. Reviewed April 2016. Depression - a major cause of disability.

5. This is a serious hindrance to the work

One of the essential features of depression - loss of motivation, which can affect a person's working life. According to the calculations of researchers from the University of Michigan, loss of productivity under the influence of this disorder in the US alone costs employers $ 44 billion annuallyUniversity of Michigan Depression Center.Depression and Lost Productivity.

6. No one is immune from depression

She, like any other mental disorder, can affect anyone. Depression does not look at age, social status or nationality. Stars such as Catherine Zeta-Jones, Kate Middleton and Andre Agassi openly talk about their experiences of struggle with mental health problems.

7. It sullies the reputation

Mental disorders are still surrounded by negative stereotypes. The names of the different emotional states often serve as a pretext for harassment or lightly used in conversations. Many also wrongly associate mental disorder with violence. This behavior increases their misperception of society.

8. Many keep depression in yourself

The fear of shame or condemnation often to silence people who are experiencing mental anguish. Studies show that this fear prevents people from getting the necessary helpPatrick W. Corrigan, Benjamin G. Druss, Deborah A. Perlick.The Impact of Mental Illness Stigma on Seeking and Participating in Mental Health Care. In particular this applies to the male half of humanity. According to data for 2015, men are more likely to hide suicidal thoughts.

9. In the worst cases it leads to suicide

mental disorders can be a serious problem. For this reason, health care and empathy play a crucial role. According to the National Union of Mental Health, 90% of suicides are suffering from mental disordersNational Alliance on Mental Illness.Risk of Suicide.

10. Depression does not define a person

This state is not a flaw, it does not make a person defective. Cancer diabetes and do not form a personality, the same can be said about depression. Correctly chosen treatment helps to control this disorder. In spite of it, a person can live a happy, healthy and active life.

What to do

If you are sick at heart, do not be discouraged and not to close themselves in - act. Seek support from family and consult a psychologist. Or become themselves a support for your neighbor if you noticed that the help he needed. Depression is not a sentence, it is possible and necessary to fight it.