Depression

Who has it?​

Clinical depression has been likened to a modern epidemic, with most cases undiagnosed and untreated. Yet the toll in human happiness and productivity is tremendous. Untreated depression can potentially lead to broken relationships, substance misuse, job loss, compulsive behaviours and, at the worst, self-harm and suicide.​ About 15% of us have a bout of Major Depression at some point in our lives and it is the 4th most common cause of disability worldwide.  Each year in the United Kingdom about 4000 people tragically destroy themselves as the result of untreated depression.

What is it?

​Some common Symptoms of Depression

• Feelings of sadness or Irritability, frustration, agitation, or restlessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities
• Insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Indecisiveness, distractibility, or decreased concentration
• Fatigue, tiredness, or loss of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Trouble with thinking, concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things
• Thoughts of death, dying, or suicide​​

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What causes it?

Depression doesn't have a single cause. Most likely it’s caused by a combination of factors that may include:

• Family history of depression
  
• Brain Chemistry 
  
• Life events and stressors (academic, personal, or financial stress) 
  
• Environmental factors (like a change of seasons)
  
• Serious illnesses Losses
  
• Experiencing prolonged bias/discrimination