According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 8% of the US population suffers from depression at any given time. The National Alliance on Mental Illness highlights that 16 million Americans live with major depression, while 11% of youth deal with mood issues which often include depression as a diagnosis. Highlighting risk factors and symptoms is key to an early diagnosis and finding a treatment option that works best for the person in question.
Risk Factors
- Family history of depression
- Stressful situations recurring
- Relationship trouble
- Death or loss of a loved one
- Major life changes
- Stressful job or work environment
- Family environment that includes violence, abuse, divorce, death, or illness
- Family history of addiction
- Experiencing abuse
- Having a medical condition or other mental health issue
Symptoms
- Prolonged, persistent sadness
- Anxiousness
- Loss of pleasure or interest
- Neglecting responsibilities or personal care
- Irritability
- Lack of energy, fatigue
- Decreased memory and concentration
- Mood swings
- Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt
- Continued negative thoughts
- Increased drug/alcohol use
- Suicidal thoughts
If you or a loved one is feeling some of the above symptoms and embodies any of the risk factors listed above, consulting with a mental health professional is a great place to start. Finding the right treatment option for you will likely include a plan that supports physical, emotional, and spiritual health.