The Facts And Fictions Of Depression Statistics

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 depressed people 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.

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 may be one of the most common conditions in the world

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 treatable

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

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 depression 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 always looks 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. Below are a few possible symptoms of depression, but please note that it is generally not necessary to experience every symptom in order to receive a depression diagnosis.

• 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: Depression only affects 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 can improve your mental health and overall well-being so that you can live the life you wish to live.

Benefits of online therapy

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

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.