Depression
Not just "sad"
Research Questions
What is depression?
What are the effects of depression?
Why do people get depression?
How can you tell/see the symptoms of depression?
What’s so bad about it?
- Is it fixable?
Summary Of Research
Depression is a serious problem here in America. It affects more than 19 million Americans a year, and in devastating ways. Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, and the feeling of sadness is overwhelming, and it won’t go away. As stated on the National Institute of Mental Health “Many people with a depressive illness never seek treatment,” and that is true, due to the symptoms caused by depression. You may have or may know someone who has depression if they are: Addicted to drugs and/or alcohol, sleeping too much or aren’t getting enough sleep, cannot concentrate on simple things, feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, can’t control negative comments and/or thoughts, loss of appetite or can’t stop eating, more irritable or aggressive, and finally thoughts and/or attempts of suicide. If you, or you know someone who is considering suicide, get help immediately. Despite these downfalls, depression can be self treated. “Exercise. Regular exercise can be as effective at treating depression as medication. Not only does exercise boost serotonin, endorphins, and other feel-good brain chemicals, it triggers the growth of new brain cells and connections, just like antidepressants do.”
Exercise, as you can see, is a very powerful tool against depression. Nutrition as well. Changing your eating habit (for the better) will have a good effect. Sleep also has a strong effect on mood, so getting the right amount will help a lot. Support from other people is also a great way to fight it, just as long as you let them. So let’s all be aware of depression so you can help others and they can help you.
Sources
1"NIMH · Depression - National Institutes of Health." 2007. 30 Apr. 2015 <http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/>
"Depression Treatment - Helpguide.org." 2014. 30 Apr. 2015 <http://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/depression-treatment.htm>