The Science Behind: Depression
Depression isn't just sadness. So many people are suffering from depression but are unheard. So many people confuse depression with sadness and undermine what people are feeling, making it harder for them to open up. Sometimes people wear masks, a happy one covering up their pain. Perhaps if people understand what causes depression, it will be easier to support someone who has it or open up to people.
1) Chemical Imbalance -> A balance in chemicals in the brain is imperative for healthy moods and behaviors. For people who are depressed, some chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, glutamate, or GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid), may be out of balance.
2) Genetics ->It is thought that depression could be living within genetics. Someone with a first degree relative who has been diagnosed with depression is more likely to obtain it themselves.
3) Medical Illness/Conditions -> Many illnesses come with side effects. One of these side effects can be depression. Many people with depression had/have heart attacks, Parkinson Disease, Multiple scielrosis, cancer, diabetes, or chronic pain.
4) Hormones -> Women are more likely to develop depression than men due to hormones. New mothers sometimes have postpartum depression.
5) Personality -> People who are highly sensitive and have had a troubled childhood are more prone to depression.
6) Lost meaning -> People struggle to find the meaning of life or why they should live it. This may develop existential depression.
7) Media Addiction -> In some, social media can cause a sensation of being overwhelmed, losing productivity, loss of self esteem, and mood changes. Movies and TV can also have this impact on people.
8) Residential Location -> The place where you live can also possibly expose you to depression. People in urban areas are more likely to be victim to depression than people in rural areas.
9) Minorities -> People apart of a minority (for example, a certain race) have more social pain such as humiliation, embarrassment, and sadness, which could lead to depression.
Something we need to understand is that we shouldn't ever judge a book by its cover. We shouldn't ever be the person to determine someone else's feelings. We have no right to do that. Instead, we should lend an ear to the people that need it. We should let people talk and create a comfortable space for them. In the end, it strengthens our community and brings us closer together. Why is this important? Because at one point in your life, you're going to be the one who needs someone to lend an ear to you. For anyone having a bad day or struggling with life - know you're not alone. When you're in the dark, it's better to reach out for a hand, I'm sure there'll be one.
Love,
A.C.
Sources:
Cover: https://c4.wallpaperflare.com/wallpaper/231/640/853/walking-in-rain-painting-wallpaper-preview.jpg