Is there a way to tell whether you're feeling down because you're sick, or you're sick because you're feeling down?

We always seem to be exposed to depression.

Reading the article, I think it's just a passing emotion, but I feel we shouldn't ignore it.

Stories about depression that you overlooked or passed by

Is depression a mental illness?

Depression is a 'treatable' mental illness. It is a medical condition that should not be thought of as caused by personal weakness. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in the United States, major depression affects about 6.7% of the U.S. population aged 18 and older. Some sources suggest it could be as high as 15%. The exact cause has not yet been clearly identified. However, like other mental illnesses, research indicates that various biochemical, genetic, and environmental factors contribute to depression.

Can children get depression?

Children can develop depression due to various factors. These include changes in physical health, life events, genetic factors, environment, and chemical imbalances in the brain. In the United States, about 2.5% of children suffer from depression, and it is estimated that 4% to 8% of adolescents are affected. Depression in children differs from the 'normal' sadness or everyday emotions that commonly occur at different ages.

For example, children suffering from depression exhibit persistent behavioral changes that interfere with normal life, affecting friendships, academics, special interests, and family life. Additionally, it can occur simultaneously with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Conduct Disorder (CD).

Can lack of sleep also cause depression?

Lack of sleep does not cause depression, but it can play an important role. Sleep deprivation due to other medical conditions or personal issues can worsen depression. Chronic sleep deprivation may be a significant clue for depression.

How can we determine whether a disease causes depression or depression causes a disease?

Diseases that can cause depression are usually major, chronic, or terminal illnesses. When a disease causes depression, it often involves long-term pain or physical disabilities, or sudden life changes. Depression can also cause illness in other ways, such as weakening the immune system like psychological stress, making one more susceptible to colds or the flu. It can also cause pain without a specific cause. If you have depression, symptoms may last longer and worsen when you are ill.

Why are women more prone to depression than men?

Women are twice as likely to suffer from depression as men. One of the reasons is the various hormonal changes women experience. For example, depression commonly occurs during pregnancy, menopause, postpartum, after miscarriage, and after hysterectomy. These periods are all times when women's hormones fluctuate significantly. Additionally, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) can also trigger depression.

Do depression patients attempt suicide?

No. Most people suffering from depression do not attempt suicide. However, according to the American Psychiatric Association, 30% to 70% of people who have committed suicide have experienced some form of depression. This figure highlights the importance of seeking professional treatment for oneself or loved ones when depression is suspected.

Is it possible for someone who has experienced depression to experience it again?

People who have experienced major depression once may encounter similar symptoms in the future, but not everyone who recovers from depression will experience it again. Sometimes, depression is triggered by a combination of major life events, illnesses, or various factors related to specific times and places. Depression can occur without an obvious 'reason.' Receiving appropriate treatment for the right duration is crucial for recovery and for preventing or identifying future episodes of depression.

How long does depression last?

If left untreated, depression can last for several months or sometimes years. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) primarily persists during the winter and improves during spring and summer. Bipolar disorder is characterized by 'up' (manic episodes) and 'down' (severe depressive episodes). These phases can change rapidly or slowly, but bipolar depression can persist until effective treatment is found.

Komedii.com Jeong Hee-eun eun@kormedi.com

Psychiatry

Is there a way to tell whether you're feeling down because you're sick, or you're sick because you're feeling down?