How Does Depression Affect Adults

Depression in Adolescents versus Adults Depression is a very large issue in the world, but more importantly, America. According to Webster’s Dictionary, depression is a mental condition characterized by feelings of severe despondency and dejection, typically also with feelings of inadequacy and guilt, often accompanied by lack of energy and disturbance of appetite and sleep. Mainly depression affects adults and adolescents, but does affect people of all ages. Over 20% of all Americans will experience depression at some point in their lifetime. Depression, though it is severe, can be treated in various ways if action is taken within adequate time, like with any other disease. The manifestations of depression in adolescents differ from the
According to recent studies by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, over 6.7 percent of North America’s population has, or had depression or symptoms of depression. Approximately one in eight adolescents experience depression of different severities. Depression is an issue that starts within a childhood; however it can also later occur as well. According to recent studies, the median age at which depression occurs is at the age of 32 (NIMH.) Problems that may occur in a person’s childhood may affect them for the rest of their lives in terms of depression. According to “Depression: the NICE Guidelines to Treatment,” Depression is more prevalent in women than men because women tend to carry out the effects emotionally much longer. They struggle to accept their disease. Like most disorders however, acceptance is the first step to growing on a healthy path to handling depression. Depression is a growing problem in America that can be reduced if proper action is taken. Adolescent depression is not medically different from adult depression, however depression’s symptoms manifest differently in adolescents. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 3.3% of 13 to 18 year olds had or have experienced a seriously debilitating depressive disorder or condition. Adolescents are more susceptible to disorders such as depression due to the overwhelming stress of simply growing up and evolving as a human being. Adolescents, especially
Coping according to dictionary.com is defined as facing and dealing with responsibilities, problems, or difficulties, especially successfully or in a calm or adequate manner. Coping with depression is essential to the recovery process. Everyone who experiences this severe mental disorder needs to find some form of coping skill. Unfortunately, not all coping skills are healthy and often involve drugs or alcohol. On the other hand, exercise is often used in both age groups to cope with depression by stimulating the senses and distracting the mind from what may be going around them. When exercising, adrenaline is released or built up which help release the pressure of stress. When this is released, the stress reduces the weight which is applied to the brain and reduces the effects or even the severity of depression. Due to personal experiences, this is a healthy and effective way to reduce stress and ease depression. A common coping skill is the use of therapy. There are outpatient interpersonal therapy and inpatient interpersonal therapy available for those who require aid in resolving their mental illness. Also for adults that have had conflicts with their divorce and or relationships in marriage that cause depression, there is marital therapy to help save the marriage or to help the individual recover from past experiences. Antidepressants are often one of the most commonly used coping skills in the United