The Facts And Fictions Of Depression Statistics And Data

As depression can be a very common mental health disorder, it can be beneficial to understand the facts and fictions surrounding it. The facts generally state that depression can be one of the most common conditions worldwide and that it can be treatable. Meanwhile, fictions often involve the ideas that all people with depression are suicidal, that depression and anxiety are the same, that depression always looks identical, even in different people, and that depression only affects adults. If you’re living with symptoms of depression, you might consider reaching out for professional help via in-person or online therapy.

Depression statistics: putting facts before fiction

Before we get into the falsehoods regarding depression, let's focus on what we do know. Recent years have yielded a wealth of research into depression’s effects on the worldwide population. Even as this research has contributed to more effective treatments for depression, its findings may not be widely known. Here are some of the most important statistics you may wish to know about depression. 

Fact: Depression statistics and rates show that this condition has a high prevalence

It’s estimated that almost 7% of adults are living with some degree of depression, falling somewhere on the scale from mild to severe. That can equal around 280 million people worldwide.

Fact: Depression can be treated, according to research, data, and studies

Of all the possible ways to treat depression, there are generally two that stand out above the rest. Speaking to a therapist is often the most effective mental health treatment. Therapy, alongside the appropriate use of prescribed medication, is often enough for people living with depression to manage their condition.

Debunking the myths based on research and studies

Now, let's take a look at some of the myths surrounding depression. For the most part, these myths can be perpetuated by a lack of education about depression, rather than any kind of maliciousness. 

Fiction: All people with depressive symptoms are suicidal

At its most extreme, depression can result in suicide. It can be true that symptoms like suicidal ideation can occur in people living with depression. However, the majority of people with depression do not die by suicide.

Fiction: Depression and anxiety are part of the same condition

While there may be a correlation between the two conditions, they don’t always appear together, and anxiety and depression are generally not the same thing. Because of their close relationship, it can be common to see them referenced together. This may be in part because both conditions are commonly treated with medication and therapy. Still, it can be best not to conflate the two conditions.

Fiction: Depression symptoms always look the same

Even though the term “depression” can be a convenient catch-all term for a type of mental health condition, it can be important to keep in mind that there can be many different kinds of diagnosable depression. Each type may manifest differently, varying in symptoms and intensity. 

Please note that it is generally not necessary to experience every symptom in order to receive a depression diagnosis. That said, some common symptoms of depression include:

• Unexplained feelings of guilt or despair

• Increased irritability

• A lack of interest in activities

• Physical aches and pains

• A loss of self-confidence

• Self-isolation

• Difficulty concentrating and sleep issues

• Low energy

Even the list above can be far from exhaustive. There may be no singular experience of depression. Just as everyone tends to be unique, individual experiences of depression (and other mental health disorders) can also be unique.

Fiction: Mental health conditions like depression only affect adults

Depression often occurs during the late teens or early twenties, but there can still be millions of children and adolescents who are diagnosed with depression. It can be crucial to ensure that young people with depression receive the professional treatment they deserve. 

Seeking therapy for depression

People with depression should generally seek therapy, either online or in person, for several reasons. First and foremost, therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a non-judgmental space. In addition, depression treatment may help improve your mental health and overall well-being so that you can live the life you wish to live.

Types of therapy for a person with depression

There are hundreds of talk therapy modalities available, and several may be helpful to a person experiencing depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common types used for major depressive disorder. A cognitive behavioral therapist aims to help a person learn to recognize and shift distorted thought patterns that may be contributing to or exacerbating their symptoms. Other types of therapy that may be used to treat depression include interpersonal psychotherapy, psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.

Finding a therapist to address symptoms like depressed mood

Signs of clinical depression—especially more severe symptoms—are unlikely to resolve without treatment, so reaching out for help if you notice them is recommended. If you’d like to meet with a mental health care provider in person, you can ask your doctor for a referral, use a locator tool, or check with your insurance company to try and find the right fit. If you prefer to meet with someone from the comfort of home, you can learn more about getting started with online therapy below. 

Potential benefits of online therapy for depressed symptoms

If you’re currently living with depression, it can be challenging to get out of bed and face the day. The thought of going through the process of finding a local therapist, scheduling an appointment, acquiring transportation and childcare, and attending therapy in person can seem overwhelming. Online therapy can offer a more flexible alternative, empowering you to get the professional insight and guidance you deserve from the comfort of your home.

Effectiveness of online therapy for improving mental health

Recent research has shown that if online therapy is your preference, it can be just as effective as in-person therapy while often being more affordable and convenient. Online therapy can be effective not only for a major depressive episode but also for bipolar disorder.