Depression is not simply a temporary change in mood or a sign of weakness. It is a real medical condition with many emotional, physical, behavioural and cognitive symptoms.1,2
Many people are ashamed or afraid to ask for help. Others shrug off their symptoms and end up suffering in silence. Contrary to some misconceptions, depression is neither inevitable nor is it a character flaw.1 People with depression often get these ideas because of the feeling of guilt caused by the illness.1 Depression is a real health problem for which help is available.1 But you must be aware of it and know how to ask for help.
About 1 in 10 Canadians will experience an episode of major depressive disorder (the diagnosis given to those suffering from depression) during their lifetime.3
Depression is, in fact, a widespread medical condition:8,19
Unfortunately, many people, unaware of how common this illness is, do not seek treatment because they are afraid of what others will think. And yet, today depression is a common illness for which there are many effective treatments.1 If you suspect that you are depressed, it is important that you see your doctor as soon as possible.
The most common form is known as major depressive disorder.3
Major depressive disorder is characterized by a fairly lengthy period of time (at least two weeks) during which a person feels sad or hopeless or lacks focus in life, on a daily or almost daily basis, for the most part of each day. This condition is associated with many other symptoms which can have repercussions emotionally, socially, professionally and in other significant areas of life.4
Fortunately, if properly managed, recovery is possible for patients suffering from major depressive disorder.1
More: See Causes of Depression
There is a type of depression that occurs in association with a loss of daylight, as happens during the winter in Canada. This “seasonal depression” is also referred to as seasonal affective disorder or SAD, and affects between 3% and 5% of Canadian adults. For those that suffer from this form of depression, the symptoms usually come on in the fall and lift with the arrival of spring.5
Following the birth of a child, a woman’s hormone levels dip quite profoundly. This may result in the new mother feeling depressed. This is known as a postpartum depressive episode. It is believed that postpartum depression may be linked to rapidly shifting hormones.6
Although it is often a painful process, grieving is a normal and necessary response to a loss. Depending on the individual, this period can last weeks, months or even years. A significant loss can trigger genuine depression. However, grief does not normally lead to depression.7
Depression may be caused by one factor alone or a combination of factors.8
Some factors believed to contribute to depression include:
Someone with depression may sometimes exhibit the following symptoms:4
These symptoms are related to emotions. A depressed person may feel sad, hopeless, have little interest in things they used to and may feel overwhelmed.4
The impact of depression is not always “mental,” it can affect the body as well. People with depression may complain of unexplained aches and pains.4
When a person suffers from depression, they may behave differently. A person who is lively and cheerful may become slow and uninterested in what is going on around them.4
Depression can also impair one’s ability to think and reflect and can affect memory.4
To find out more: Symptoms of Depression Information for Family & Friends
Depression is a real medical condition that can and should be treated.1
If you think you may be suffering from depression, see a doctor as soon as possible; only a doctor can diagnose depression and recommend appropriate treatment.
