Depression
Author: Dong An (MD Candidate)
Reviewer: Dr. Bernard Ho (MD)
Is your mood low? Have you lost interest in activities you used to enjoy? Are you experiencing loneliness or hopelessness? Are you having difficulty sleeping and feel tired? Has your appetite and weight changed?
If any of the above questions resonate with you, especially for prolonged times, then it is possible you are experiencing depression. If so, you are not alone. Depression is common and can occur in anyone.
Depression is defined as an experience of low mood or a loss of interest in activities we normally enjoy, along with other physical or mental symptoms for at least 2 weeks. Other co-existing symptoms can include feelings of guilt and decreased concentration. Physical symptoms are common as well, and include difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite and slowed movement or speech. Occasionally, some people might have recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
Even though depression is common, research has shown that certain groups are more at risk:
-personal history or family history of depression or other mental illness
-chronic physical disorders or chronic pain
-traumatic or extreme stressful event (abuse, death of a loved one etc.)
-isolation and lack of social support
-low socioeconomic status
-alcohol or recreational drug abuse
However, as previously mentioned, anyone can experience depression at any point in their lives.
Many elderly people, who are at higher risk for depression, do not recognize their symptoms as depression and often do not seek help. Factors contributing to this include reluctance to seek help, increased social isolation, and not knowing that physical symptoms are also signs of depression. It is important to emphasize that depression is not a natural part of aging, and can be treated.
COVID-19
Another trigger for depression is distressing or stressful events. Currently, everyone is affected by the COVID-19 global pandemic in some way. Many people’s mental health have also been negatively affected. A recent study by Mental Health Research Canada demonstrated that feelings of depression are rising in Canadians during this time [1]. This could be due to many causes, including increased isolation, anxiety about health, financial difficulties, and many other life changes that have occurred.
What can you do if you are experiencing depression?
1) Stay connected with other people
-As previously mentioned, social isolation is a risk factor for depression
-Given the current pandemic and physical distancing, options include calling others or video-chatting. There are many free video-chatting platforms such as Zoom
-When the pandemic ends, options include attending activities at your local community centre, volunteering, or joining a class
2) Adopt healthy habits
-Your physical health also has an impact on your mental health
-Daily exercise
-Healthy diet
-Sufficient sleep
3) Finding purpose in life
-Focus on what you can still do, instead of dwelling on the past
-Get involved in your community, such as through volunteering
-Learn new skills
-Pick up a new hobby
4) Seeking additional help
-It is important to seek professional help if you believe your depression is not improving or if you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide
-Options include seeing your family doctor, going to the ER or going to a psychologist/therapist
-If you are in distress or need emotional support, there is a support line offered by Distress Centres of Greater Toronto, which offers multilingual helplines in Cantonese and Mandarin:
-Call 911 if it is an emergency
Reference
[1] https://www.mhrc.ca/our-research/?fbclid=IwAR13r9YtAdWVdcUA4Cb_ZCKT4SXRPvnq87DcqTqkKZ8AfMpIq8ef40_eGHI#study-on-mental-health
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These presentations are intended for general information purposes only. Audience are recommended to consult with qualified healthcare provider and obtain professional advice and subsequent management for your particular conditions. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of Assisting in Medical Expectations.
