Depression: The Invisible Killer of Modern Society
Introduction
In modern society, depression has become a common mental health problem. It is like an invisible killer, quietly eroding people's physical and mental health. According to the latest research data, the incidence of depression is on the rise worldwide, especially in Singapore, where depression has become a serious public health problem. This article will explore the definition, symptoms, causes, treatments and social impact of depression in depth, aiming to raise public awareness of depression and reduce misunderstandings and discrimination against patients.
I. Definition of Depression
Depression, also known as depressive disorder, is a common mental illness. It is not just a simple "low mood" or "bad mood", but a complex psychological disorder that has a wide range of effects on the patient's emotions, thinking, behavior and physical functions. People with depression usually experience persistent sadness, despair, loss of interest or fun, and a series of physical and psychological symptoms that can have a serious impact on the patient's daily life, work and interpersonal relationships.
II. Symptoms of Depression
The symptoms of depression are varied, mainly including the following aspects:
▸ Emotional symptoms:
Persistent sadness, anxiety or emptiness.
Feeling hopeless or helpless.
Easy to be irritable and angry.
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed.
▸ Cognitive symptoms:
Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
Thinking about death or suicide.
▸ Behavioral symptoms:
Avoiding social activities and withdrawing from friends and family.
Sleep problems, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping.
Appetite changes, which may lead to significant weight gain or loss.
Fatigue or lack of energy, and difficulty regaining energy even after resting.
▸ Physical symptoms:
Headaches, backaches, muscle aches, or joint pains.
Digestive problems, such as stomach pain, constipation, or diarrhea.
Loss of libido.
III: Depression online test
In the past two weeks, how often have you been bothered by the following problems?
1. Lack of interest or pleasure in doing things
•Not at all
•A few days
•More than half the days
•Almost every day
2. Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless
•Not at all
•A few days
•More than half the days
•Almost every day
3. Having trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much
•Not at all
•A few days
•More than half the days
•Almost every day
4. Feeling tired or having low energy
•Not at all
•A few days
•More than half the days
•Almost every day
5. Losing your appetite or overeating
•Not at all
•A few days
•More than half the days
•Almost every day
6. Feeling bad about yourself - or feeling like a failure or disappointing yourself or your family
•Not at all
•A few days
•More than half the days
•Almost every day
7. Having trouble concentrating on things like reading the newspaper or watching TV
•Not at all
•A few days
•More than half the days
•Almost every day
8. Moving or talking too slowly for others to notice
•Or the opposite - Fidgeting and moving around more than usual
•Not at all
•A few days
•More than half the days
•Almost every day
9. Thought I would rather die than hurt myself
•Not at all
•A few days
•More than half the days
•Almost every day
10. If you checked any of the questions, how much trouble did they make for you at work, at home, or getting along with others?
•Not at all
•Somewhat difficult
•Very difficult
•Extremely difficult
Conclusion
Depression is a common mental illness that has a profound impact on both the individual and society. By raising public awareness of depression and reducing misunderstandings and discrimination against patients, we can create a more friendly social environment for patients. At the same time, timely treatment and appropriate support are essential for the recovery of patients. Depressed patients do not face difficulties alone. The support of family, friends and society is an important force for them to overcome the disease. Let us work together, pay attention to mental health, provide more help and support for patients with depression, and help them get out of the haze and regain the light.
