October is Depression Awareness Month

There was a time during my young adult life when the emotional pain I experienced was so deeply overwhelming, so deeply devastating that it left me contemplating the unimaginable, my own life. A personal truth that I do not feel shame in sharing as this vulnerable human emotion was born out of a sudden, traumatic loss of my beloved spouse. The point is, that no one should ever be left to feel alone, ashamed, shamed, or judged for the emotional pain we inherit and carry in this life through no fault of our own. To understand that depression is a deeply complicated, universal medical condition impacting children and adults of all ages and why we as a culture need to “humanize” depression. To understand, the brain, like any other human organ, is vulnerable to illness and deserves the same compassion and support, without assigning cruel, archaic stigma or blame. To acknowledge the courage, it takes to face the darkness and loneliness of depression. To acknowledge the immense amount of courage and energy it takes to fight and lift one’s spirit when living within a body and brain that is working against you.

October is recognized as Depression Awareness Month.

According to Medical News Today, October is recognized as Depression Awareness Month each year. The purpose is to increase understanding, decrease stereotypes, and help educate on how depression and other mental health issues impact people. Depression Awareness Month helps to increase the general population’s knowledge and understanding of depression and other mental health conditions. During the month, different organizations host live and online events, use social media tags, and promote awareness.

What Is Depression?

Although there are different types of depressive disorders, the most diagnosed form of depression is Major Depressive Disorder. A common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults have a mental health illness. Many factors contribute to depression, which includes biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry. Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse. Family history of mental health problems.

Depression’s Debilitating Impact.

Yes, this may sound like an exaggeration, especially to those who never experienced a major depressive disorder. However, just ask anyone who lives with chronic depression; just ask anyone whose precious loved one lost their battle to this illness despite their every effort to address the unrelenting symptoms of depression. An illness that impacts every aspect of one’s human existence.

Mental Health Treatment Concerns.

According to Forbes Health, a recent report cited that there is “only one provider available for every 350 individuals in need of services”. Add to this, the countless numbers of people who do not have appropriate mental health coverage or the finances to pay for out-of-pocket mental health treatment. A vicious cycle that is ever growing with time, leaving people everywhere at risk.

Treatments for Depression.

There are various treatment options for depression. They include psychological treatments, medication, and general measures such as relaxation techniques, each to be discussed with your physician.

Bottom line: According to the World Health Organization, approximately 280 million people in the world have depression—a worldwide disease causing severe disability, morbidity, and mortality. Despite abundant studies, the precise mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of depression remain elusive.

On a personal note: “As we navigate through Depression Awareness Month, let us seek to learn with an open mind and a compassionate heart. To be a part of the solution, not a part of the pain”.

Donna Pisacano-Brown is a Point Lookout resident who has been a columnist featured in local newspapers since 1996. She is a passionate advocate for drunken driving awareness, and shining a light on mental health topics.