By Staff Reporter
Depression is a serious mental health disorder that knows no bounds
It is indiscriminate and does not favour anyone, regardless of race, age, sexuality, religion, nationality, gender or socio-economic rank. It affects people from all walks of life.
Those who suffer from depression are afflicted by emotional pain, inability to connect with loved ones, family and friends. It also can leads to poor performance at work, energy deprivation and hopelessness.
While depression is often the forementioned symptoms it can also show itself in outbursts of rage, gratuitous risk-taking and substance abuse.
Another heartbreaking result is that if depression is left untreated, it often leads to suicide. Encouraging news is that it can be treated with appropriate professional help.
According to the World Health Organisation, depression results from a complex interaction of social, psychological and biological factors. Those who have gone through adverse life events (unemployment, bereavement, traumatic events) are more likely to suffer from depression. Depression can, in turn, lead to more stress and dysfunction and worsen the affected person’s life situation and the depression itself.
The United Nation’s Department of Economic and Social Affairs Disability predicted that depression will become the leading cause of disability worldwide.
“Persons with mental and psychosocial disabilities represent a significant proportion of the world’s population. Millions of people worldwide have mental health conditions and an estimated one in four people globally will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime.
“Almost one million people die due to suicide every year, and it is the third leading cause of death among young people. Depression is the leading cause of years lost due to disability worldwide.
“Mental health problems, including alcohol abuse, are among the 10 leading causes of disability in both developed and developing countries. In particular, depression is ranked third in the global burden of disease, and is projected to rank first in 2030.”
As the number of people who suffer from depression rises, it is vital to acknowledge it as a serious mental illness and intensify efforts to wipe off the negative stigma that associated with it.
Celebrities speak openly
At the height of lockdown, a number of celebrities took to social media and spoke openly about their fight with depression. Their open admission is one of the soundest means to get the message to the general public.
Every time a high-profile person goes public to share their stories of depression, they contribute toward erasing the stigma of depression. This highlights the point that depression is real.
For every high-profile person with the bravery to speak openly, it encourages those who suffer in silence to seek help.
Aaron Moloisi – TV Presenter and Actor
“I’m Aaron Moloisi and I suffered mild depression. Thanks to my spiritual mentor for helping me realise that over thinking things can lead to severe depression. Depression affects men too.”
Phumzile Van Damme – Politician
Thanks for sharing. I’m Phumzile Van Damme. I have Anxiety. I struggle with depression, PTSD & insomnia. I take medication. My psychiatrist & I had been working on reducing doses, until trauma hit, so doses are back up again & I see my therapist weekly. Let’s share & destigmatize.
K Naomi – TV Presenter
“I am K Naomi Noinyane and in 2018 I found out I had minor depression but chose not to take meds because I was too scared to be reliant on them. I do although still suffer from anxiety. A therapist and my supportive family are my coping mechanisms.”
Kiernan Forbes AKA – Rapper
“I need to let this be known, especially for so many people out there fighting every day. I was diagnosed with clinical depression many, many months ago. I was put on meds but couldn’t handle them. They made me feel like I couldn’t feel anything so I got off them. Plus, my whole job is to feel.”
Simphiwe Dana – Musician
“I am Simphiwe Dana and I suffer from depression and anxiety. I don’t take meds for the depression as I fear it will affect my creativity. I do take Stresam for the anxiety.”
Lalla Hirayama – TV Presenter
My name is Lalla Hirayama. I struggle with panic and anxiety disorder, depression and have gone through 3 suicidal phases in my life. I have worked with my psychologist for 8 years and a psychiatrist. I’m currently on medication to help. Let’s destigmatise
