Depression is a complex feeling of sadness and hopelessness that is present daily and lasts most of the day for at least 2 weeks. Depression impairs how a person functions in day-to-day activities (e.g.: at work, in school).
Symptoms of depression can include:
- change in appetite
- problems with sleep
- loss of interest in work, hobbies, social situations
- withdrawal from family and friends
- feelings of uselessness, hopelessness, guilt
- low self-esteem
- agitation
- feeling slowed down
- irritability
- fatigue
- trouble concentrating or making decisions
- crying easily or feeling like crying
- thoughts of suicide
There is no single cause for depression. It can be triggered by a family history, psychological vulnerability, chemical imbalances in the brain and major stressors (e.g.: loss of a job).
Depression will affect up to 8% of adults in their lifetime (CMHA); however, 40% of people will not seek medical help (CAMH). Consider, that 8.1% of Canadians are currently diagnosed with diabetes (Canada.ca) – can you imagine not getting medical help for diabetes?
“If you think ‘I can handle it on my own’ ask yourself what other illness would you say that about?”
(Michael Landsberg)
Key points to remember:
- Depression is not simply unhappiness
- Depression is not a weakness
- You cannot think yourself out of depression
- You do not have to have a reason to be depressed
Mental Health Resources:
- ConnexOntario Mental Health Helpline http://connexontario.ca
- Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) https://cmhadurham.ca/
- 211 Ontario https://211ontario.ca
- Big White Wall https://www.bigwhitewall.ca
