Teenagers and Depression: Dangerous Combo!
It is predicted that, by 2020, depression will be the world’s second biggest cause of death and disability. This is a condition that leaves people unable to cope with daily life, and can lead to suicide, which is now one of the most common causes of death among young men. But despite being one of the world’s most prevalent illnesses, depression is still misunderstood and stigmatised.
Despite extensive research into mental illnesses, there is much experts still do not understand. But there are some things we do know. We know, depressed people aren’t crazy, and they usually get better. We know there is a difference between feeling down and clinical depression, even though we may confusingly describe our low moods as feeling depressed.
The World Health Organisation predicts that the incidence of mental illnesses will surge over the next 20 years, so that by 2020, depression will be the leading cause of disability, and the second biggest contributor to the global burden of disease. Although low – income families are more at risk, depression effects people in every class, in every country in the world.
It is difficult to know, what has led to the recent in depression and suicide rates. As our scientific understanding of mental illness progresses, the stigma associated with depression is being slowly eroded. This may mean that people are now more willing to admit they suffer from depression, resulting in larger numbers being diagnosed by doctors, and increasing prescriptions of antidepressant drugs.
If someone becomes depressed it is important that he or she doesn’t stay ignored. The most important thing is to be there for him or her, and to be a good listener.
Tags: depression, teenagers