The Impact of Depression

Chronic depression can be a risk factor for suicide.  And while cyclical depression does not equate to suicide attempts, many suicidal attempts have occurred in a depressive cycle.  Suicide continues to be the second cause of death for individuals ages 15-34 years (National Institute of Mental Health, 2019).  Depression may be a difficult subject to broach for many people.  And for individuals who bravely took the step to discuss their experience with depression, they may have been met with feedback such as "get over your depression" or "it's all in your head". One's perspective on the etiology of depression is subjective.  The medical community may view depression as a physiological problem.  Depression may be caused by the depletion of certain neurotransmitters such as serotonin or dopamine.  Other professions such as social work  may view depression as a social problem and tend to look at the person-in-environment perspective. The spiritual community may view depression as the result of unmet spiritual needs.  While the origin of depression is important, it is even more important that family members and friends of individuals who suffer from depression understand how debilitating depression can be. Hopefully, this video will provide you with some insight!!

Source: Depression, the Secret We Share- Andrew Soloman

https://youtu.be/-eBUcBfkVCo

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/suicide.shtml