Depression has become a common issue at this point. It’s more prevalent than ever before, and experts expect it to continue on an upward trend in the years to come.
Despite its growing commonality, it’s a widely misunderstood condition. Take a look at the following facts about depression that just may shock you.
1) You May Be More Likely to Develop Depression Than You Might Think
First of all, let’s take a look at just how likely people are to develop depression. In general, there’s a significant chance that at least one in three women in America will develop depression at some point. For men, the odds of needing treatment for depression are one in five. This is only a rough estimate, though. Several other factors enter the mix here, including heredity, gender, individual circumstances, and many others.
2) It’s More Common Than Most People Realize
Secondly, depression is far more common than most people realize. In fact, it’s among the most common health conditions in the world, and about 21 million Americans are diagnosed with it each year. Approximately 6 percent of people across the globe are reported to experience this condition annually.
3) Most People Don’t Receive Treatment for Depression
Keep in mind that the previously mentioned figures are only the cases that are reported. Millions more suffer in silence. It’s believed that at least 50 percent of people who live with depression and other mental disorders don’t receive treatment for them.
4) Women Are More Likely Than Men to Suffer From Depression
We’ve already alluded to the fact that women are more likely than men to suffer from depression, but several factors are at work here. Hormonal changes are largely to blame. Women experience significant hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, all of which contribute to the likelihood of developing depression.
5) Children Aren’t Immune to Depression
Another fact that surprises many people is the number of children and teenagers who suffer from depression. It was once thought to mainly be a problem among adults, but that’s no longer the case. On last count, an estimated four million children and teenagers in America were living with the condition. Even toddlers can develop depression.
6) The Risk of Developing Depression Can Be Hereditary
Depression can be hereditary as well. Though physical and psychological factors come into play, people with blood relatives who suffer from depression are more likely to develop it. Experts point out that the degree to which genes play a role varies based on numerous factors.
7) Depression Doesn’t Only Cause Mental Symptoms
Contrary to popular belief, depression doesn’t only come with mental symptoms. It can cause physical problems as well. Those range from headaches and body aches to digestive issues and insomnia. People who live with depression are more likely to suffer from autoimmune disorders, inflammatory conditions, and other chronic health issues too.
8) The Foods You Eat Can Affect Your Risk of Depression
Foods can increase or decrease your risk of developing depression according to many studies. People who eat mainly processed foods and those high in sugars and unhealthy fats are more likely to suffer from depression. On the other hand, those who stick to fresh vegetables and fruits, lean meats, whole grains, and other healthy choices are less likely to develop depression.
9) Depression May Show Appear on Brain Scans
Another shocking fact is that depression may be visible on certain types of brain scans. MRIs, for example, can sometimes show the changes that occur in the brain in people with depression. Though this isn’t true for everyone or every type of depression, it’s still a bit surprising.
10) Depression Isn’t Always Obvious
There’s a common misconception that people who suffer from depression are noticeably sad all the time. That’s not necessarily the case. Many struggle on the inside but put on a happy face for the rest of the world. Some people don’t even realize they’re suffering from depression. Though they’re well aware that something isn’t quite right, they’re unable to put a label on it.
Looking at Depression From a Different Perspective
Depression is more common than most people realize, and it’s gaining prevalence. It’s also a widely misunderstood condition. No one is invulnerable to this condition. There are certainly ways to treat it, though, including counseling, therapy, and medications. Finding the right combination of treatments may take time and a certain amount of trial and error, but it’ll be well worth it in the long run.
