Depression is a mental health condition that can have an impact on your day-to-day life. It can affect your relationships, your ability to work and study, your mood, and your health. It is more common than you might think, and it can be treated with medication and therapy.
The Cause of Depression
No one knows exactly why people develop depression. It can happen for many different reasons, including:
Biological factors that affect how your brain functions may play a role in developing depression. These include changes in the way your brain produces and processes chemicals that regulate your mood, and changes in your hormones.
Changes in your life that are stressful or overwhelming can also make you more likely to have depression. For example, the loss of a job or the death of a loved one can trigger depression.
Psychological factors that affect how your brain works can also contribute to depression, such as:
Your family history of depression could be a risk factor for developing depression. This is especially true for those who have parents or siblings with the condition.
There are also other things that can increase the risk for developing depression, such as:
The effects of medications and alcohol use on your mood or mental health can also lead to depression. Drugs or alcohol can interfere with your body’s natural balance of chemicals that regulate your emotions, such as serotonin and dopamine.
Lifestyle changes can help you cope with depression and other mental health problems. For example, a healthy diet, exercise and avoiding stress can help prevent or ease symptoms.
Talking to someone who can support you is crucial when you’re feeling depressed. It can help you realize that you aren’t alone in your experience, and can help you get treatment sooner rather than later.
If you have thoughts of hurting yourself, call a crisis hotline immediately to receive help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988.
You should be able to tell when you are depressed by experiencing a change in your mood or energy levels, and by losing interest in regular activities or socializing. You should also have trouble sleeping and thinking clearly.
Symptoms can last a few weeks or more, or you can have them for months and years. If you feel depressed most of the time and have trouble with your relationships, you need to see a doctor.
A depression diagnosis is usually made if you are suffering from a long-term, untreated problem that is affecting your daily life. It isn’t a sign of weakness or an inability to deal with stress, but it can be a serious illness that requires professional treatment.
What’s a good way to start writing about depression?
The best way to begin is to read a few essays on depression. These will give you a clear idea of what the topic is about and how it’s structured. You can then choose the topic you want to write about, based on what is most important to you.