Often misunderstood, depression is a mental illness that has become increasingly common in people's daily lives. The latest mapping conducted by the World Health Organization in 2023 reveals that Brazil has the highest prevalence of this disorder in Latin America (5.8% of the population), ranking second only to the United States (5.9%).
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For a more in-depth and clarifying interpretation, Dr. Danilo de Melo highlights the most significant signs of the condition, shedding light on the main risk factors and the most appropriate treatments.
"First, it is essential to differentiate depression from other common human emotions. Sadness, for example, is a natural part of life and arises in response to challenging or difficult situations. It is temporary. Depression, on the other hand, transforms this sadness into something intense and persistent, interfering with even the most basic daily activities," explains the psychiatrist and psychotherapist.
Among the primary signs are excessive fatigue, sudden loss of motivation, distress, unusual irritability, changes in sleep patterns, appetite fluctuations, and even anxiety. Therefore, it’s essential to pay close attention to these manifestations.
"These signs can appear either individually or collectively, so vigilance is crucial. As for risk factors, in addition to genetic predisposition, stress, chronic health conditions, chemical imbalances in the brain, and socioeconomic factors such as poverty and violence—all of these can contribute to the onset of depression," adds Dr. Danilo.
A detailed clinical evaluation becomes the most accurate method for diagnosing the condition. When it comes to treatment, a combination of medication and therapy is quite common. “Medications, contrary to popular belief, do not cause dependency or euphoria in patients. Emotional reorganization is effectively complemented by psychotherapy,” concludes Dr. Danilo.
It is important to note that depression often requires ongoing treatment. Physical exercise has become a significant ally both during and after the patient’s clinical state. The condition impacts not only work performance but, more importantly, the most common daily activities, such as the individual’s social interactions.
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