What is Depression?

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What is Depression?

Depression is a mood disorder, and affects millions of people worldwide. In Hong Kong, as many as 1 in 4 people suffer from depression or anxiety.

Feelings of sadness, low mood and hopelessness may occur in many people. Depression is not just feeling sad; it can be a very debilitating disorder. When these feelings persist and start to affect daily activities like eating, sleeping and working, or cause physical symptoms, these may be signs of depression.

What are the causes of Depression?

Almost anyone can suffer depression, regardless of age, gender, race, socioeconomic status, etc. The causes of depression are multifactorial. Unfortunately, there are certain risk factors that will increase the risk of developing depression. Just to mention a few:

  • Family history of depression or mental health disorders
  • Experienced major life events, traumatic events, or childhood abuse
  • Women are more likely to suffer from depression than men
  • Personal history of mental health disorders or other chronic illnesses
  • History of substance abuse

Regardless, it is important to remember that for anyone suffering from depression, it is never their fault, and the symptoms are often out of their control. Depression can manifest in many different ways so understanding this disorder is essential, and will help you identify if you, your family or friends exhibit these symptoms.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression is diagnosed when they show symptoms for at least two weeks. Common symptoms include the following:

  • Change in sleep patterns (can be more or less than usual)
  • Changes in appetite (can be overeating or loss of appetite)
  • Difficulty in concentrating
  • Low energy levels
  • Loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyable
  • Sense of hopelessness, worthlessness, guilt
  • Moving or speaking slowly
  • Having suicidal thoughts or ideas
  • Physical pain and generalized discomfort

How is depression treated?

It is important to have a proper diagnosis from a licensed practitioner. Subsequently, the treatment plan for depression is different for every person. Different strategies include (but may not necessarily include all of the following):

  • psychotherapy with a therapist
  • medication with antidepressants
  • lifestyle changes
  • self-help strategies

How can Soulgood help?

Soulgood is here to accompany and guide you through your journey. What’s included:

  • After signing up, we will instantly match you with a therapist best suited to your needs. He/she will create a personalised therapy program for you
  • Unlimited messaging with your therapist
  • Live video (or voice) call sessions, up to 4 sessions per month depending on your subscription plan
  • Journal to track your mood and thoughts
  • Monthly progress report from your therapist
  • Self-guided tools