Definition

A mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest; can affect how individuals feel, think, and behave; and can lead to emotional and physical problems.

Types

Causes

  • Biochemistry (differences in brain chemicals)
  • Personality
  • Environment

Statistics

  • Affects an estimated 1 in 15 adults each year
  • 1 in 6 people (16.6%) will experience depression at some time in their life
  • Nearly 50% of those diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with an anxiety disorder
  • Major depressive disorder is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. for ages 15 to 44.3

Risk Factors

Current research suggests that depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

Prevention

It is possible to prevent a depressive episode, including lifestyle changes and management techniques (including avoiding triggers).

  • Decrease social media exposure
  • Eat a healthy diet (lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains)
  • Exercise regularly
  • Have a strong support system
  • Know medication side effects
  • Maintain treatment plan
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Minimize daily decisions/choices
  • Plan for unavoidable triggers
  • Quit tobacco
  • Reduce alcohol & drug use
  • Reduce stress
  • Sleep

Vaccinations

People with a chronic disease are at higher risk for serious problems from certain diseases. Getting vaccinated is an important step in staying healthy.

The CDC recommends all adults receive:

  • Influenza – recommended every year, age 6 months and older
  • Tdap – (if an adult did not receive it as an adolescent to protect against pertussis (whooping cough), and then a Td (tetanus, diphtheria) booster shot every 10 years.

Talk to your doctor about which other vaccines are right for you.

COVID-19 and Depression

The CDC states that individuals with mood disorders, including depression, are at an increased risk for developing severe illness from COVID-19 infection. Additional information can be found on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Disaster Preparedness page.

Resources

Support Groups