Depression Can Affect Anyone: Awareness Saves Lives
Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses worldwide - yet it is underestimated and stigmatized. In Austria, around 730,000 people are affected. One in five to seven people will suffer from it at some point in their lives. Visibility, education, and timely support can save lives, the Professional Association of Austrian Psychologists (BÖP) highlighted on Wednesday. October 5th is European Depression Day.
Women Affected More Often
Depression has many faces, it was stated in the release. It does not always show itself immediately and can also be hidden behind outward stability. The crucial point is: depression is a serious but treatable illness - never a personal failure. Those affected need understanding and professional support, especially in acute crises.
Women are twice as likely to suffer from it as men. The causes are not in "nature," emphasized the BÖP, but in societal structures: violence, financial dependency, the gender pay gap, and unequal distribution of care work massively increase the risk. Added to this is the pressure from beauty ideals.
Talking Openly About Depression
"Depression is a very serious illness. For prevention, it is crucial to recognize the first signs early, which often already appear in the school context. We must finally talk openly about depression to break taboos and be able to implement early health-promoting and preventive measures," emphasized BÖP President Beate Wimmer-Puchinger.
Key risk factors include impaired psychological development, low self-esteem, stressful or traumatic family relationships, the loss of close relatives, and various stress burdens. In adolescence, frequent and unregulated use of social media is also added.
"No Health Without Mental Health"
"Mental health must be equated with physical health," demanded Wimmer-Puchinger. "Access to treatment must be affordable and available in a timely manner for everyone. Because it is clear: there is no health without mental health."
(APA/Red)
This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.