Depression is a psychological illness which can occur at any age and which must be distinguished from simple temporary pain or a “low mood”.
“Depression is different from usual mood fluctuations and short-lived emotional responses to challenges in everyday life. During a depressive episode, the person experiences depressed mood (feeling sad, irritable, empty) or a loss of pleasure or interest in activities, for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Several other symptoms are also present, which may include poor concentration, feelings of excessive guilt or low self-worth, hopelessness about the future, thoughts about dying or suicide, disrupted sleep, changes in appetite or weight, and feeling especially tired or low in energy. People with depression are at an increased risk of suicide. Yet, effective psychological treatment exists, and depending on the age and severity, medication may also be considered.”
Source : OMS, 2022. Mental disorders. World Health Organization [online]. 8 June 2022. [Accessed on 18 October 2022].
Available at : https://www.who.int/fr/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-disorders
True or false?
Recovery from depression is a matter of willpower. | Treating depression takes time. |
| La dépression est un signe de Depression is a sign of weakness of character. | Often, it is thought that only adults can suffer from depression. |
| Burnout can lead to depression. | After depression, you can regain a good quality of life. |
| Depression is a typically female disease. | «If I feel sad and tired today, it’s because I have depression.» |
| A large proportion of people who commit suicide suffer from depression. | Antidepressants are addictive. |
| Depression always manifests as crying. | Fatigue and insomnia are common symptoms of depression. |
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