
What is Depression?
Depression, is a mood disorder that negatively affects a person's mood and makes daily life difficult. It is characterized by constant sadness, depressed mood and inability to experience pleasure. The diagnostic criteria for depression include symptoms such as depressed mood lasting at least two weeks, insomnia or excessive sleeping, loss of appetite or overeating. In addition, restlessness, irritability, slowness of movement, fatigue, loss of energy, indecisiveness, feelings of worthlessness, thoughts of guilt and thoughts of death are also symptoms of depression.
Causes of depression
Many factors play a role in the emergence of depression. Such as genetic predisposition, economic status, education level, unemployment, gender and age. socio-economic factors, increases the risk of depression. In addition, environmental events such as psychological trauma, war, and migration can also cause depression. In recent years, lifestyle variables such as obesity, lack of physical activity, and alcohol and substance use have also increased the risk of depression.
Depression Rates in Turkey
Recent studies show that depression rates have increased significantly in Turkey. Factors such as social isolation, uncertainty and economic hardship due to the impact of the pandemic have increased depression rates. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, there was an increase in depression cases worldwide in 2020 and the situation in Turkey followed a similar course.
The Role of Socioeconomic Factors
Socio-economic factors have a major impact on the increase in depression rates in Turkey. As income and education levels increase, risk of depression decreases. Research shows that individuals with low socio-economic status and chronic diseases are at high risk of depression, while this risk is lower in individuals with high socio-economic status. Unemployment, social inequalities and economic problems increase stress levels, leading to biological processes that facilitate the development of depression.
Depression Prevalence Rate in Women
Depression is more common in women than in men. Studies conducted in Turkey have shown that depression increases with age. In terms of education level, the risk of depression is lower in individuals with a university degree or higher. In addition, unmarried or divorced individuals are more likely to develop depression than married individuals.
Winter Depression
Winter depression, is defined as a seasonal affective disorder. Symptoms usually begin in the fall and winter months and disappear in the spring and summer months. The decrease in daylight in the winter can negatively affect mood by causing some biological and chemical changes in the human body. The decrease in sunlight can disrupt the balance of chemicals such as melatonin and serotonin, which can cause fatigue and depressive feelings. In addition, vitamin D deficiency in the winter months can also trigger symptoms of depression.
Methods That Are Good For Depression
There are various methods to cope with depression. Exercising regularly, can help reduce symptoms of depression. Exercise improves mood by releasing endorphins. It is also important to regularly do activities that were previously enjoyable, eat a balanced diet and get enough sleep. Getting support from family and friends and sharing your situation contributes to the healing process. Avoiding alcohol and drug use is very important in managing symptoms of depression.
Importance of Medication and Therapy
Depression is diagnosed by a doctor through a physical examination, laboratory tests, and psychiatric evaluations. Depression is a mental illness that usually responds well to treatment. The most effective treatment method is to use medication and psychotherapy together. In resistant cases or in cases where there is a risk of suicide, options such as inpatient treatment and ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) can also be considered. If depression is left untreated, it can seriously impair a person's quality of life and lead to more severe mental problems.