1) There may not be any reason or cause for depression.
Depression is often misunderstood as just feeling sad, but it is a complex medical condition. Sometimes people may feel depressed due to obvious reasons. Most common stressors known are Career setback, relationship breakup, losing loved ones, etc. However, in many instances there doesn’t have to be a reason for how you feel. Our mood is regulated by chemicals in the brain which, if out of balance, can make one feel bad even when everything is going well.
2) The cause is Multi factorial. Depression treatment
It can never have a single causing factor. According to research the cause for depression is always multi-factorial. It is caused by a combination of factors, such as environmental factors, genetic tendency towards depression, individuals coping abilities against stress, social support, etc.
3) Sadness is not Depression Symptoms
Being sad is very normal. Sadness is a normal emotional response to pain. Depression however is an illness that comprises a certain set of symptoms, and most importantly, it causes difficulties in functioning at work, home and in society.
4) Depression can happen to all age groups.
No particular age-group is immune to depression. Depression in adults is a well known fact. However, the trend of depression in children is increasing at an alarming rate in recent times. Struggle for peer acceptance, bullying in school are some unique stresses found to result in depression in children.
5) It is real like any other medical illness.
Depression is not a sign of weakness, but it is a clinical entity, a medical illness. It can happen to anyone. It is now scientifically proven that an underlying chemical imbalance in the brain neuronal circuitry is a direct cause for depression. These chemicals are known as Neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters regulate our mood and emotional state.
6) Can Depression be treated?
Depression is like any other medical illness. It is definitely treatable. The treatment includes medications and psychotherapy. There have been major advances in medications with minimal side effects and larger benefits.
7) It can worsen if not treated.
Depression is a leading cause for disability. It is most common cause for suicide. According to recent Mental Health Survey, 90 percent of those committing suicide are suffering from mental illness.