Don't ignore depression 

The term "depression" is one that most people are familiar with. It is often described as a curse that overwhelms individuals when sorrow and despair become unbearable. Despite the smallness of the word, it vividly illustrates a devastating state of mind. Thoughts become trapped in endless cycles of "what could have been" or "what should not have happened," and gradually, people drift into a gloomy realm where even the positive feels threatening. When such a condition persists for more than two weeks, it may develop into clinical depression, often lasting months or even years. But is depression truly a natural part of life, as many believe?

Depression is a serious mental health condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, background, or education. It exists in many forms, such as major depression, bipolar disorder, seasonal affective disorder, persistent depressive disorder, and depression with psychotic symptoms. Every day, more people are being diagnosed with depression. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 4.1% of people in Bangladesh suffer from depression, and 4.4% struggle with anxiety. Globally, around 280 million people are affected, which is about 3.5% of the world's population. In the United States alone, more than 21 million adults experienced at least one major depressive episode in 2021, representing 8.3% of the population. Research further shows that depression with psychotic features affects about 4 in every 1,000 adults, while its prevalence rises significantly among those over 60 years old.

The rise of depression is also linked to the alarming increase in suicides. Worldwide, nearly 720,000 people take their own lives each year, making suicide the third leading cause of death among those aged 15 to 29. In Bangladesh, 4% of boys and 6% of girls between 13 and 17 have considered suicide. Hopelessness lies at the core of most suicide cases, as individuals seek an escape from the relentless waves of despair. Depression is especially common among young adults aged 18 to 25, a stage of life filled with uncertainty and vulnerability.

The symptoms of depression are varied and can deeply affect daily life. People may experience prolonged sadness, emptiness, or loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Other signs include appetite changes, excessive or insufficient sleep, fatigue, restlessness, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, physical pain without clear causes, suicidal thoughts, or withdrawal from friends and family. Factors that contribute to depression range from loneliness, family conflict, financial struggles, and workplace stress to experiences of loss, discrimination, or violence. Genetic predisposition, environmental pressures, and psychological vulnerability often interact to create the condition.

Scientific studies have also shown that depression has tangible effects on the brain. The hippocampus, a region critical for memory and emotional regulation, has been observed to shrink during depressive episodes, leaving individuals more prone to emotional breakdowns. A large study involving 10,000 participants confirmed this link between depression and reduced brain volume. Furthermore, research has found that children of depressed parents are more likely to develop depression themselves, with paternal depression having a particularly strong impact.

Gender differences are also evident in patterns of depression. Women are more likely than men to report experiencing it, especially in the younger age groups. In the United Kingdom, for example, about 35% of women aged 16 to 29 reported moderate to severe depressive symptoms, compared to 22% of men. Yet studies also suggest that fathers play a crucial role in helping children cope with depression, underscoring the importance of family support.

Addressing depression requires both medical treatment and social awareness. Effective options include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both, though treatment often needs to be long-term. Unfortunately, access remains a major challenge, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where nearly 75% of those with mental illnesses receive no care. Alongside professional treatment, healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress management can help reduce the severity of depression. Practices like yoga and meditation are also effective in calming the mind and building resilience.

On a social level, building supportive communities is essential. Parents should strive to understand their children with empathy, encourage open communication, and provide reassurance. Society as a whole must break the stigma surrounding mental health and promote programs that foster hope, connection, and awareness. Depression is not a weakness, nor is it something to be joked about. It is a serious illness that demands compassion, medical attention, and collective responsibility. Only through joint efforts can we hope to reduce its devastating impact on individuals and communities.

The writer is a contributor