OPINION | Luisina Daives, psychologist at AMADEM
On January 13th, World Day Against Depression was commemorated. This disorder causes very high mortality rates worldwide. It affects people of all ages, but adolescents and older adults are the most affected groups. Depression is a mental disorder that affects 2.5 million people in Spain and can be treated.
That is why the objective of commemorating this day is to raise awareness, guide and prevent the population from this disease. Although the exact causes of depression are not known, there are various factors that contribute to the appearance of this disorder, with the interaction between social, psychological and biological factors being the main causes of this disease. The genes that we inherit and that are influenced by the experiences we have in our lives can predispose us to suffer from depression.
The main signs that characterize depression include permanent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in daily life activities, isolation, sleep and appetite disorders, lack of concentration and a feeling of tiredness. Specialized intervention is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Let us be aware that depression is one of the leading causes of disability, and that its most serious consequence is suicide. One of the global objectives is to break down the myths and taboos surrounding mental health disorders, since people who suffer from them are frequently stigmatized and discriminated against, which negatively affects their recovery.
Depression is not synonymous with fragility or lack of willpower. Depression is a disorder like any other, with its specificities and particularities, which will require specialized attention.