In this article, I would like to elaborate on the nature of depression, outlining the diagnostic criteria and some of the recognised risk factors which can cause individuals to become more vulnerable to suffer from depression.
Diagnostic Criteria;
• Extremely low or dark mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in things which previously provided pleasure
• Significant weight gain or loss
• Agitation or generally slowing down
• Lacking in energy
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Feelings of guilt
• Loss of concentration
• Thoughts of death or suicide
Some of the recognised factors which may lead to an individual becoming depressed include;
• Early life experiences
• Maladaptive belief system / core beliefs
• Genetic factors e.g. Family history of depression
• Critical incidents e.g. Traumatic events such as motor vehicle accidents, exposure to combat
Risk factors which can increase vulnerability to becoming depressed;
• Lack of sleep
• Poor appetite / poor diet
• Negative self talk
• Lack of exercise
• Cessation of regularly taking prescribed medication
• Work related stressors e.g. Overwork / underperformance
• Substance abuse
• Relationship breakdown
• Legal matters / judicial matters
• Significant lifestyle changes e.g. Moving houses, changing jobs
• Traumatic events e.g. Deaths, illness
• Weather conditions
• Dysfunctional family history
• Past episodes of depression
• Other mental illnesses
• Isolation, withdrawal
• Lack of meaning, beliefs, spirituality, nothing to look forward too
• Lack of pleasurable activities such as sports and hobbies
• Low self worth, low self esteem
• Not seeking and engaging in professional help, counselling
• Unrealistic expectations, unrealistic goal setting, creating high risk of failure
• Negative patterns of behaviour e.g. Late nights, gambling, excessive partying, taking illicit drugs
• Association with negative people, bad influences
• Lack of balance in life e.g. Too much work, too little relaxation, family time
• Not being aware or taking note of early warning signs
• Lack of knowledge, lack of self awareness
If you can identify with some or all of these risk factors, you may be at high risk of becoming clinically depressed. In which case, you should seek help and assistance by speaking to your doctor immediately.
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