Some people dismiss depression as if it is all in the mind and that all a person has to do to get rid of it is to get over whatever problem is causing the depression. Dealing with depression is not nearly so simple, however, and failing to get treatment for depression can lead to serious consequences.
Those who receive treatment for depression have an 80% chance of recovery, but those who fail to receive treatment may find that their lack of treatment will have negative consequences.
Since depression affects the mood, suffering from it can lead to estrangement from family, friends, and coworkers. Work productivity may suffer, and depression victims may make questionable personal and professional decisions. Depression victims may also experience a decrease in the desire to engage in activities that they once found enjoyable, such as spending time with friends as well as having sex. Failure to treat depression may result in the formation of an even stronger depression, resulting in more suffering for you as well as your loved ones.
Depression may also worsen existing medical conditions or increase the likelihood of contracting such an illness. Heart disease, obesity, and diabetes have been linked to depression, as have increased instances of Alzheimer’s and various types of cancer. Depression also causes problems in regards to a person’s sleep cycle, weakening the immune system and reducing the quality of the person’s day to day life.
The worst case scenario for depression is suicide; depressed men are more likely to commit suicide than depressed women, although more women attempt suicide than do men. Depression can lead to suicidal thoughts such as worthlessness, hopelessness, and a desire to end it all, and these feelings can become overwhelming to a person who is not receiving depression treatment. Anyone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts and/or tendencies should seek professional help immediately or call a suicide hotline such as 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
Depression — particularly that which goes untreated — can affect people in every aspect of their lives. The professional, personal, and emotional well-being of those who suffer from depression is at stake, and those experiencing depression-like symptoms should consult a physician as soon as possible. While some may fear the social stigma attached to depression, the loss of friends and loved ones due to estrangement and mistreatment is a greater risk; increased risks of disease and suicide are also possible with untreated depression.
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