Depression
Studies reveal that 6.1 percent of Singaporeans suffer from some form of anxiety and depression, and that it is more likely to affect persons between 15 and 34 years-old.
Types
Depression can range from low moods to aversion to activity to an all-encompassing state where all aspects of one’s life are disabled by the illness. The different types of depression include manic depression (bipolar disorder), major depression, and dysthymia. The most common forms of depression are major depression and dysthymia, where the former is a more severe aversion to life and day-to-day activities.
Causes
Depression is attributable to both biological and social causes; it may be caused by one’s genetic makeup or by such social factors as social isolation, abuse and poverty. Depression is typically more common among women.
Symptoms and Treatment
The symptoms of depression vary by each type, but there are general symptoms that act as warning signals. If you or your loved ones are suffering from low moods, have lost interest of enjoyment in life, feel fatigue or lethargy, oversleep or suffer from severe lack of sleep, feel hopeless, and have no motivation to engage in day-to-day activities, lose or gain appetite and weight, or have thoughts of suicide, it is an indication that you might be suffering from some form of depression. It is important to seek treatment early.