BREAKING

THE STIGMA:

UNDERSTANDING
DEPRESSION
DEPRESSION IN NUMBERS
Depression is a common mental
disorder. Globally, more than 264
million people of all ages suffer from
depression. The Philippines has one
of the highest cases of depression in
Southeast Asia, affecting more than
three million Filipinos. (World Health Org)
DEPRESSION IN NUMBERS
According to 2017 World Health
Organization report, 8 in every
100,000 Filipinos commit
suicide. Of this figure, six are
males, while two are females,
aged 15 to 29 years old.
 WHAT IS
DEPRESSION?
 DEPRESSION
Depression is a common and serious medical illness
that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think
and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable.
(American Psychiatric Association)

Depression is different from usual mood fluctuations

and short-lived emotional responses to challenges in
everyday life. Especially when long-lasting and with
moderate or severe intensity, depression may become
a serious health condition. It can cause the affected
person to suffer greatly and function poorly at work, at
school and in the family. (World Health Organization)
WHAT CAUSES
DEPRESSION?
Family History

• Having family members who have

depression may increase a person’s
risk.

• Deficiencies of certain chemicals in

the brain may lead to depression.
 Major Life Changes

•Negative or particularly stressful

events can trigger depression.
Example: death of a loved one
• Major illnesses such as heart
attack, stroke or cancer may cause
depression.
Certain medications used alone
or in combination can cause side
effects much like the symptoms of
depression.

Use of alcohol or other drugs can

lead to depression.
Symptoms of Depression
• It varies from person to
person.

• The 3H symptoms of
depression is:
haplessness,
hopelessness, and
helplessness.
Additional Signs include:
 Changes in feelings such as:
• Feeling empty
• Inability to enjoy anything
• Hopelessness
• Loss of warm feelings for family or
friends
• Feelings of self blame or guilt
• Loss of self esteem
Changes in behavior and
attitude
 These may include:
• General slowing down
• Neglect of responsibilities and
appearance
• Poor memory
• Inability to concentrate
• Suicidal thoughts and feelings
• Difficulty making decisions
Physical Complaints
 These may include:
• Sleep disturbances such as
insomnia, early morning waking, or
sleeping too much
• Lack of energy
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss or gain
• Unexplained headaches or
backaches
• Stomachaches, indigestion or
changes in bowl habits
Professional treatment is
helpful for all of
depression.
Psychotherapy
Counseling can help many depressed people
understand, accept and feel better about
themselves.
 Interpersonal therapy works to change how
people how to accept self and relate to others
that affects mood and self-worth.

 Cognitive therapy helps people change negative

thinking, behavior patterns and attitudes that
affect self esteem and overall sense of well
being.
Medical Treatment for Depression
Antidepressants are an option (most
often for more severe cases) that can
help ease the symptoms of depression
and return a person to a better level of
functioning.
 Things YOU can do!
• Reduce or eliminate the use of alcohol
or drugs
• Exercise or engage in some form of
physical activity
• Eat a proper, well-balanced diet
• Establish a regular sleep
pattern
• Don’t expect too much of yourself until
your energy and mood improve
• Take a break
• Avoid extra stress
• Obtain an adequate and consistent
amount of sleep—not too much, nor too
little
• Pace yourself, modify your schedule,
and set small, realistic goals
• Seek emotional support from family and
friends
• Focus on meaningful, positive aspects
of your life
• Go to the counseling center and talk
with a professional counselor.
If you or someone you know
has symptoms of
depression…

TAKE
ACTION!
 When you have a depressed friend:
• Be understanding
• Don’t try to “cheer up” a depressed person
—it can feel minimizing. Simply ask if
there is anything you can do to help—the
answer will often be “no,” but the support
will be felt.
• Avoid critical or shaming statements
• Don’t argue about how bad things are or
are not.
DEPRESSION IS NOT A
CHOICE, BUT STIGMA
AND IGNORANCE ARE.
- Matt Haig