Surprising Causes of Depression

While most people are conscious about their physical health, mental health is still often overlooked. Even in modern times, it is a sensitive topic to broach because mental and emotional issues are perceived in a negative light in many cultures. This is due to a lack of awareness and empathy. As human societies are on the verge of a paradigm shift, propelled by groundbreaking technologies, there is an urgent need to develop a better understanding of mental well-being. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 5% of adults in the world suffer from depression. In this article, we will discuss one of the most pervasive mental health issues in the world: depression. We will discuss some surprising causes of depression and some recommendations to maintain your mental wellbeing.

What is Depression?

Depression is a major mood disorder that causes prolonged and persistent feelings of loss or sadness. While it’s normal to feel sad on certain occasions, depression lasts for a much longer time, leading to different physical and emotional problems. It is essential to understand that depression is not a weakness. Some people are naturally more prone to depression due to their genetic disposition, personality traits, and life experiences.

Depression is more common than most of us think. According to a Gallup study, 29% of US adults have reported being diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives. Depression is also prevalent among children. According to a study, almost 4.4% of children in the USA are depressed.

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Symptoms of Depression:

The symptoms of depression can be mild or severe, depending on your personality traits and other factors. One of the most surprising facts about depression is that some people who are depressed might not look depressed. This kind of depression is called smiling depression. People with smiling depression may seem vibrant and buoyant. This makes depression insidious and dangerous. However, some of the more common symptoms of depression are as follows:

•         Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless.
•         Challenges in concentration.
•         Losing enthusiasm or interest in hobbies and activities once enjoyed.
•         Eating less or more than before.
•         Losing sleep or sleeping more than usual.
•         Lethargy.
•         Physical problems such as headaches and back pain.
•         Low self-esteem and loss of confidence.
•         Frequent thoughts of death or suicide.

If you or your loved ones experience these symptoms, you should consult a doctor or mental health specialist immediately.

Causes of Depression:

It is hard to pinpoint the exact causes of depression. Several factors may contribute to its development. Some of these factors are as follows:

Genetic Disposition:

If your parents or siblings have experienced depression, you are three times more susceptible than the general population.

Brain Structure:

Any disturbance or imbalance in neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine, can lead to the development of depression.

Stressful Events:

Difficult life experiences can include the death of a loved one, loss of employment, divorce, trauma, or other such events that lead to social isolation.

Medication:

One of the surprising causes of depression is medication. Many people are not aware that some medications may lead to depression as a side effect.

Personality:

People with certain personality traits are more vulnerable to depression. For example, someone with low self-esteem or those who are naturally more inclined to self-criticism.

Pregnancy:

Some women experience postnatal depression. This may also be one of the most surprising causes of depression for many. Hormonal changes and physical changes can trigger this form of depression.

There could be several other causes of depression. Regardless of the causes, one should remain cautious of the consequences. More than 700,000 people die due to suicide each year. We must take it seriously and encourage a public discourse about depression.

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Essential Self-care steps:

According to the World Health Organization, self-care can play an essential role in managing and mitigating depression. Some of the self-care steps are as follows:

•         Exercise regularly. Even short walks or light exercise help.
•         Perform activities that you love.
•         Keep talking to friends and family. Seclusion only makes matters worse.
•         Maintain a regular eating and sleeping pattern.
•         Share your problems with friends and family.
•         Avoid Alcohol and drugs. The use of alcohol and drugs only makes matters worse.
•         Join support groups.

While self-care is always recommended, you must see a doctor or a mental health specialist if you feel that you are depressed.

Why Donate to Transparent Hands?

One way to deal with sadness is to offer help and kindness to those who genuinely deserve it. According to a study, volunteering can reduce stress, depression, and anxiety.

A recent study conducted at Shenzhen University indicates that being generous may help alleviate depression. These findings are not surprising, as helping those in need is a practice encouraged by almost all societies and religions.

Transparent Hands is Pakistan’s leading crowdfunding charity, providing medical and surgical assistance to deserving individuals in Pakistan. Since our inception in 2014, we have assisted more than 250,000 needy patients. With the support of our donors, supporters, and volunteers, we organize medical camps, bringing medical support to many deserving communities and people. Our medical camps offer free medical check-ups, diagnosis, and medication. 

Your Zakat, Sadaqah, and other donations can help needy Pakistanis, who await your kindness.

Conclusion:

This article discusses depression and why it is such a threat to our well-being. While self-care can help you avoid depression in some cases, it is important to be aware of its causes and symptoms. Among some of the most surprising causes of depression are medication and physical and hormonal changes caused by pregnancy and childbirth.

Practicing self-care is important, and volunteering and donating to philanthropic causes can also help manage depression. Donate to Transparent Hands without any delay!

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