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young man depression

My battle with depression and the two things it taught me

I’ve spent a decade slipping in and out of depression, but thanks to the right medicine and loving people, I’m back to being me again

I t’s often said that depression isn’t about feeling sad. It’s part of it, of course, but to compare the life-sapping melancholy of depression to normal sadness is like comparing a paper cut to an amputation. Sadness is a healthy part of every life. Depression progressively eats away your whole being from the inside. It’s with you when you wake up in the morning, telling you there’s nothing or anyone to get up for. It’s with you when the phone rings and you’re too frightened to answer it.

It’s with you when you look into the eyes of those you love, and your eyes prick with tears as you try, and fail, to remember how to love them. It’s with you as you search within for those now eroded things that once made you who you were: your interests, your creativity, your inquisitiveness, your humour, your warmth. And it’s with you as you wake terrified from each nightmare and pace the house, thinking frantically of how you can escape your poisoned life; escape the embrace of the demon that is eating away your mind like a slow drip of acid.

And always, the biggest stigma comes from yourself. You blame yourself for the illness that you can only dimly see.

So why was I depressed? The simple answer is that I don’t know. There was no single factor or trigger that plunged me into it. I’ve turned over many possibilities in my mind. But the best I can conclude is that depression can happen to anyone. I thought I was strong enough to resist it, but I was wrong. That attitude probably explains why I suffered such a serious episode – I resisted seeking help until it was nearly too late.

Let me take you back to 1996. I’d just begun my final year at university and had recently visited my doctor to complain of feeling low. He immediately put me on an antidepressant, and I got down to the business of getting my degree. The pills took a few weeks to work, but the effects were remarkable. Too remarkable. About six weeks in I was leaping from my bed each morning with a vigour and enthusiasm I had never experienced, at least not since early childhood. I started churning out first-class essays and my mind began to make connections with an ease that it had never done before.

The only problem was that the drug did much more. It broke down any fragile sense I had of social appropriateness. I’d frequently say ridiculous and painful things to people I had no right to say them to. So, after a few months, I decided to stop the pills. I ended them abruptly, not realising how foolish that was – and spent a week or two experiencing brain zaps and vertigo. But it was worth it. I still felt good, my mind was still productive, and I regained my sense of social niceties and appropriate behaviour.

I had hoped that was my last brush with mental health problems, but it was not to be.

On reflection, I realise I have spent over a decade dipping in and out of minor bouts of depression – each one slightly worse than the last.

Last spring I was in the grip of depression again. I couldn’t work effectively. I couldn’t earn the income I needed. I began retreating to the safety of my bed – using sleep to escape myself and my exhausted and joyless existence.

So I returned to the doctor and told her about it. It was warm, and I was wearing a cardigan. “I think we should test your thyroid,” she said. “But an antidepressant might help in the meantime.” And here I realised, for all my distaste for the stigmatisation of mental illness, that I stigmatised it in myself. I found myself hoping my thyroid was bust. Tell someone your thyroid’s not working, and they’ll understand and happily wait for you to recover. Tell them you’re depressed, and they might think you’re weak, or lazy, or making it up. I really wanted it to be my thyroid. But, of course, when the blood test came back, it wasn’t. I was depressed.

So I took the antidepressant. And it worked. To begin with. A month into the course, the poisonous cloud began to lift and I even felt my creativity and urge to write begin to return for the first time in years. Not great literature, but fun to write and enjoyed by my friends on social media. And tellingly, my wife said: “You’re becoming more like the person I first met.”

It was a turning point. The drug had given me objectivity about my illness, made me view it for what it was. This was when I realised I had been going through cycles of depression for years. It was a process of gradual erosion, almost impossible to spot while you were experiencing it. But the effects of the drug didn’t last. By September I was both deeply depressed and increasingly angry, behaving erratically and feeling endlessly paranoid.

My wife threatened to frog march me back to the doctor, so I made an appointment and was given another drug. The effects have been miraculous. Nearly two months in and I can feel the old me re-emerging. My engagement and interest is flooding back. I’m back at work and I’m producing copy my clients really love. Only eight weeks ago, the very idea that I would be sitting at home tapping out a blog post of this length on my phone would have made me grunt derisively. But that is what has happened, and I am truly grateful to all those who love and care for me for pushing me along to this stage.

And now, I need to get back to work. Depression may start for no definable reason, but it leaves a growing trail of problems in its wake. The more ill I got, the less work I could do, the more savings I spent and the larger the piles of unpaid bills became. But now I can start to tackle these things.

If you still attach stigma to people with mental illness, please remember two things. One, it could easily happen to you. And two, no one stigmatises their illness more than the people who suffer from it. Reach out to them.

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Essays About Depression: Top 8 Examples Plus Prompts

Many people deal with mental health issues throughout their lives; if you are writing essays about depression, you can read essay examples to get started.

An occasional feeling of sadness is something that everyone experiences from time to time. Still, a persistent loss of interest, depressed mood, changes in energy levels, and sleeping problems can indicate mental illness. Thankfully, antidepressant medications, therapy, and other types of treatment can be largely helpful for people living with depression.

People suffering from depression or other mood disorders must work closely with a mental health professional to get the support they need to recover. While family members and other loved ones can help move forward after a depressive episode, it’s also important that people who have suffered from major depressive disorder work with a medical professional to get treatment for both the mental and physical problems that can accompany depression.

If you are writing an essay about depression, here are 8 essay examples to help you write an insightful essay. For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers .

  • 1. My Best Friend Saved Me When I Attempted Suicide, But I Didn’t Save Her by Drusilla Moorhouse
  • 2. How can I complain? by James Blake
  • 3. What it’s like living with depression: A personal essay by Nadine Dirks
  • 4. I Have Depression, and I’m Proof that You Never Know the Battle Someone is Waging Inside by Jac Gochoco
  • 5. Essay: How I Survived Depression by Cameron Stout
  • 6. I Can’t Get Out of My Sweat Pants: An Essay on Depression by Marisa McPeck-Stringham
  • 7. This is what depression feels like by Courtenay Harris Bond

8. Opening Up About My Struggle with Recurring Depression by Nora Super

1. what is depression, 2. how is depression diagnosed, 3. causes of depression, 4. different types of depression, 5. who is at risk of depression, 6. can social media cause depression, 7. can anyone experience depression, the final word on essays about depression, is depression common, what are the most effective treatments for depression, top 8 examples, 1.  my best friend saved me when i attempted suicide, but i didn’t save her  by drusilla moorhouse.

“Just three months earlier, I had been a patient in another medical facility: a mental hospital. My best friend, Denise, had killed herself on Christmas, and days after the funeral, I told my mom that I wanted to die. I couldn’t forgive myself for the role I’d played in Denise’s death: Not only did I fail to save her, but I’m fairly certain I gave her the idea.”

Moorhouse makes painstaking personal confessions throughout this essay on depression, taking the reader along on the roller coaster of ups and downs that come with suicide attempts, dealing with the death of a loved one, and the difficulty of making it through major depressive disorder.

2.  How can I complain?  by James Blake

“I wanted people to know how I felt, but I didn’t have the vocabulary to tell them. I have gone into a bit of detail here not to make anyone feel sorry for me but to show how a privileged, relatively rich-and-famous-enough-for-zero-pity white man could become depressed against all societal expectations and allowances. If I can be writing this, clearly it isn’t only oppression that causes depression; for me it was largely repression.”

Musician James Blake shares his experience with depression and talks about his struggles with trying to grow up while dealing with existential crises just as he began to hit the peak of his fame. Blake talks about how he experienced guilt and shame around the idea that he had it all on the outside—and so many people deal with issues that he felt were larger than his.

3.  What it’s like living with depression: A personal essay   by Nadine Dirks

“In my early adulthood, I started to feel withdrawn, down, unmotivated, and constantly sad. What initially seemed like an off-day turned into weeks of painful feelings that seemed they would never let up. It was difficult to enjoy life with other people my age. Depression made typical, everyday tasks—like brushing my teeth—seem monumental. It felt like an invisible chain, keeping me in bed.”

Dirks shares her experience with depression and the struggle she faced to find treatment for mental health issues as a Black woman. Dirks discusses how even though she knew something about her mental health wasn’t quite right, she still struggled to get the diagnosis she needed to move forward and receive proper medical and psychological care.

4.  I Have Depression, and I’m Proof that You Never Know the Battle Someone is Waging Inside  by Jac Gochoco

“A few years later, at the age of 20, my smile had fallen, and I had given up. The thought of waking up the next morning was too much for me to handle. I was no longer anxious or sad; instead, I felt numb, and that’s when things took a turn for the worse. I called my dad, who lived across the country, and for the first time in my life, I told him everything. It was too late, though. I was not calling for help. I was calling to say goodbye.”

Gochoco describes the war that so many people with depression go through—trying to put on a brave face and a positive public persona while battling demons on the inside. The Olympic weightlifting coach and yoga instructor now work to share the importance of mental health with others.

5.  Essay: How I Survived Depression   by Cameron Stout

“In 1993, I saw a psychiatrist who prescribed an antidepressant. Within two months, the medication slowly gained traction. As the gray sludge of sadness and apathy washed away, I emerged from a spiral of impending tragedy. I helped raise two wonderful children, built a successful securities-litigation practice, and became an accomplished cyclist. I began to take my mental wellness for granted. “

Princeton alum Cameron Stout shared his experience with depression with his fellow Tigers in Princeton’s alumni magazine, proving that even the most brilliant and successful among us can be rendered powerless by a chemical imbalance. Stout shares his experience with treatment and how working with mental health professionals helped him to come out on the other side of depression.

6.  I Can’t Get Out of My Sweat Pants: An Essay on Depression  by Marisa McPeck-Stringham

“Sometimes, when the depression got really bad in junior high, I would come straight home from school and change into my pajamas. My dad caught on, and he said something to me at dinner time about being in my pajamas several days in a row way before bedtime. I learned it was better not to change into my pajamas until bedtime. People who are depressed like to hide their problematic behaviors because they are so ashamed of the way they feel. I was very ashamed and yet I didn’t have the words or life experience to voice what I was going through.”

McPeck-Stringham discusses her experience with depression and an eating disorder at a young age; both brought on by struggles to adjust to major life changes. The author experienced depression again in her adult life, and thankfully, she was able to fight through the illness using tried-and-true methods until she regained her mental health.

7.  This is what depression feels like  by Courtenay Harris Bond

“The smallest tasks seem insurmountable: paying a cell phone bill, lining up a household repair. Sometimes just taking a shower or arranging a play date feels like more than I can manage. My children’s squabbles make me want to scratch the walls. I want to claw out of my own skin. I feel like the light at the end of the tunnel is a solitary candle about to blow out at any moment. At the same time, I feel like the pain will never end.”

Bond does an excellent job of helping readers understand just how difficult depression can be, even for people who have never been through the difficulty of mental illness. Bond states that no matter what people believe the cause to be—chemical imbalance, childhood issues, a combination of the two—depression can make it nearly impossible to function.

“Once again, I spiraled downward. I couldn’t get out of bed. I couldn’t work. I had thoughts of harming myself. This time, my husband urged me to start ECT much sooner in the cycle, and once again, it worked. Within a matter of weeks I was back at work, pretending nothing had happened. I kept pushing myself harder to show everyone that I was “normal.” I thought I had a pattern: I would function at a high level for many years, and then my depression would be triggered by a significant event. I thought I’d be healthy for another ten years.”

Super shares her experience with electroconvulsive therapy and how her depression recurred with a major life event despite several years of solid mental health. Thankfully, Super was able to recognize her symptoms and get help sooner rather than later.

7 Writing Prompts on Essays About Depression

When writing essays on depression, it can be challenging to think of essay ideas and questions. Here are six essay topics about depression that you can use in your essay.

What is Depression?

Depression can be difficult to define and understand. Discuss the definition of depression, and delve into the signs, symptoms, and possible causes of this mental illness. Depression can result from trauma or personal circumstances, but it can also be a health condition due to genetics. In your essay, look at how depression can be spotted and how it can affect your day-to-day life. 

Depression diagnosis can be complicated; this essay topic will be interesting as you can look at the different aspects considered in a diagnosis. While a certain lab test can be conducted, depression can also be diagnosed by a psychiatrist. Research the different ways depression can be diagnosed and discuss the benefits of receiving a diagnosis in this essay.

There are many possible causes of depression; this essay discusses how depression can occur. Possible causes of depression can include trauma, grief, anxiety disorders, and some physical health conditions. Look at each cause and discuss how they can manifest as depression.

Different types of depression

There are many different types of depression. This essay topic will investigate each type of depression and its symptoms and causes. Depression symptoms can vary in severity, depending on what is causing it. For example, depression can be linked to medical conditions such as bipolar disorder. This is a different type of depression than depression caused by grief. Discuss the details of the different types of depression and draw comparisons and similarities between them.

Certain genetic traits, socio-economic circumstances, or age can make people more prone to experiencing symptoms of depression. Depression is becoming more and more common amongst young adults and teenagers. Discuss the different groups at risk of experiencing depression and how their circumstances contribute to this risk.

Social media poses many challenges to today’s youth, such as unrealistic beauty standards, cyber-bullying, and only seeing the “highlights” of someone’s life. Can social media cause depression in teens? Delve into the negative impacts of social media when writing this essay. You could compare the positive and negative sides of social media and discuss whether social media causes mental health issues amongst young adults and teenagers.

This essay question poses the question, “can anyone experience depression?” Although those in lower-income households may be prone to experiencing depression, can the rich and famous also experience depression? This essay discusses whether the privileged and wealthy can experience their possible causes. This is a great argumentative essay topic, discuss both sides of this question and draw a conclusion with your final thoughts.

When writing about depression, it is important to study examples of essays to make a compelling essay. You can also use your own research by conducting interviews or pulling information from other sources. As this is a sensitive topic, it is important to approach it with care; you can also write about your own experiences with mental health issues.

Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

FAQs On Essays About Depression

According to the World Health Organization, about 5% of people under 60 live with depression. The rate is slightly higher—around 6%—for people over 60. Depression can strike at any age, and it’s important that people who are experiencing symptoms of depression receive treatment, no matter their age. 

Suppose you’re living with depression or are experiencing some of the symptoms of depression. In that case, it’s important to work closely with your doctor or another healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan that works for you. A combination of antidepressant medication and cognitive behavioral therapy is a good fit for many people, but this isn’t necessarily the case for everyone who suffers from depression. Be sure to check in with your doctor regularly to ensure that you’re making progress toward improving your mental health.

If you’re still stuck, check out our general resource of essay writing topics .

overcome depression essay

Amanda has an M.S.Ed degree from the University of Pennsylvania in School and Mental Health Counseling and is a National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer. She has experience writing magazine articles, newspaper articles, SEO-friendly web copy, and blog posts.

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327 Depression Essay Titles & Examples

When choosing a title about depression, you have to remain mindful since this is a sensitive subject. This is why our experts have listed 177 depression essay topics to help you get started.

🌧️ How to Write a Depression Essay: Do’s and Don’ts

🏆 unique titles about depression, 🥇 most interesting depression title ideas, 📌 good titles for depression essay, ✅ simple & easy depression essay titles, 🎓 interesting topics to write about depression, 📑 good research topics about depression.

  • ❓ Research Questions for a Depression Essay

Depression is a disorder characterized by prolonged periods of sadness and loss of interest in life. The symptoms include irritability, insomnia, anxiety, and trouble concentrating. This disorder can produce physical problems, self-esteem issues, and general stress in a person’s life. Difficult life events and trauma are typical causes of depression. Want to find out more? Check out our compilation below.

A depression essay is an important assignment that will help you to explore the subject and its impact on people. Writing this type of paper may seem challenging at first, but there are some secrets that will make achieving a high grade much easier. Check below for a list of do’s and don’ts to get started!

DO select a narrow topic. Before starting writing, define the subject of the paper, and write down some possible titles. This will help you to focus your thoughts instead of offering generic information that can easily be found on Wikipedia. Consider writing about a particular population or about the consequences of depression. For example, a teenage depression essay could earn you excellent marks! If you find this step challenging, try searching for depression essay topics online. This will surely give you some inspiration.

DON’T copy from peers or other students. Today, tutors are usually aware of the power of the Internet and will check your paper for plagiarism. Hence, if you copy information from other depression essays, you could lose a lot of marks. You could search for depression essay titles or sample papers online, but avoid copying any details from these sources.

DO your research before starting. High-quality research is crucial when you write essays on mental health issues. There are plenty of online resources that could help you, including Google Scholar, PubMed, and others. To find relevant scientific articles, search for your primary and secondary topics of interest. Then filter results by relevance, publication date, and access type. This will help you to identify sources that you can view online and use to support your ideas.

DON’T rely on unverified sources. This is a crucial mistake many students make that usually results in failing the paper. Sources that are not academic, such as websites, blogs, and Wiki pages, may contain false or outdated information. Some exceptions are official publications and web pages of medical organizations, such as the CDC, APA, and the World Health Organization.

DO consider related health issues. Depression is often associated with other mental or physical health issues, so you should reflect on this in your paper. Some examples of problems related to depression are suicide, self-harm, eating disorders, and panic attack disorder. To show your in-depth understanding of the issue, you could write a depression and anxiety essay that shows the relationship between the two. Alternatively, you can devote one or two paragraphs to examining the prevalence of other mental health problems in people with depression.

DON’T include personal opinions and experiences unless required. A good essay on the subject of depression should be focused and objective. Hence, you should rely on research rather than on your understanding of the theme. For example, if you have to answer the question “What is depression?” look for scientific articles or official publications that contain the definition rather than trying to explain it in your own words.

DON’T forget about structure. The structure of your essay helps to present arguments or points logically, thus assisting the reader in making sense of the information. A good thing to do is to write a depression essay outline before you start the paper. You should list your key points supported by relevant depression quotes from academic publications. Follow the outline carefully to avoid gaps and inconsistencies.

Use these do’s and don’ts, and you will be able to write an excellent paper on depression! If you want to see more tips and tricks that will help you elevate your writing, look around our website!

  • Depression and Grief in the “Ordinary People” Film At the end of the film, he is healed and ready to forgive his mother and stop blaming himself. I believe that the relationship between Conrad and his therapist, Dr.
  • Understanding Teen Depression Impacts of depression on teenagers Depression is characterized by several effects; however, most of them impact negatively to the teens. For instance, a considerable percentage of teens use extra-curriculum activities such as sports and games, […]
  • Report Writing About Depression There is concrete evidence that many people in Australia tend to believe that depression is the cause of all suicide deaths in the world, but this not true.
  • Social Networking and Depression The findings of the study confirmed that once an individual engages in social networking, his or her feeling of safety goes down and depression mood emerges meaning that a correlation between depression and social networking […]
  • Depression, Grief, Loss in “Ordinary People” Film The coach is curious to know Conrad’s experiences at the hospital and the use of ECT. Towards the end of the film, Conrad reveals to the therapist that he feels guilty about his brother’s death.
  • Beck Depression Inventory, Its History and Benefits Therefore, the detection of depression at its early stage, the evaluation of the risks, and the definition of the level of depression are the main goals.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Treating Depression CBT works on the principle that positive thoughts and behaviour heralds positive moods and this is something that can be learned; therefore, by learning to think and behave positively, someone may substitute negative thoughts with […]
  • Anxiety and Depression Among College Students The central hypothesis for this study is that college students have a higher rate of anxiety and depression. Some of the materials to be used in the study will include pencils, papers, and tests.
  • Beck Depression Inventory in Psychological Practice Beck in the 1990s, the theory disrupted the traditional flow of Freudian theories development and introduced the audience to the concept of cognitive development, therefore, inviting psychologists to interpret the changes in the patient’s emotional […]
  • Biological and Social-Cognitive Perspectives on Depression The social-cognitive perspective states that the disorder’s development is influenced by the events in the patient’s life and their way of thinking.
  • Case Study of Depression and Mental Pressure Alison believes that her illness is severe and taking a toll all the time, and the environment is worsening the condition.
  • The Problem of Childhood Depression Thus, it is essential to explore the reasons for the disease and possible ways to treat depression in kids. In kids, the prevention of depression is fundamental to understanding the cause of the poor mood […]
  • Emotional Wellness: The Issue of Depression Through Different Lenses As for the humanities lens, the increasing prevalence of depression causes the institution of religion to incorporate the issue into major confessions’ mindsets and messages.
  • Depression Among High School Students The specific problem surrounding the issue of depression among adolescents is the absence of timely diagnosis as the first step to depression management.
  • The Difference Between Art Deco and Depression Modern Design By and whole, Art Deco and Depression differ in their characteristics and their meanings as they bring unlike messages to the viewers.
  • The Effects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) on Depression in Adults Introduction It is hard to disagree that there is a vast number of mental disorders that prevent people from leading their normal lives and are quite challenging to treat. One such psychological condition is depression (Li et al., 2020). Since there is a social stigma of depression, and some of its symptoms are similar to […]
  • Depression Among University Students The greatest majority of the affected individuals in different universities will be unable to take good care of their bodies and living rooms.
  • Depression and Melancholia Expressed by Hamlet The paper will not attempt and sketch the way the signs or symptoms of depression/melancholia play a part in the way Shakespeare’s period or culture concerning depression/melancholia, but in its place portrays the way particular […]
  • Depression in Older Adults The understanding and modification of the contributions of these factors is the ultimate goal of the clinicians who engage in the treatment of depression.
  • Depression as a Psychological Disorder Summarizing and evaluating the information that trusted journals have published on the topic of depression might help create a well-rounded review of the condition and the scientific community’s understanding of it.
  • Depression and Its Causes in the Modern Society The higher instances of depression among women can be explained using a number of reasons including the lifestyle of the modern woman and her role in the society.
  • Postpartum Depression in African American Women As far as African American women are concerned, the issue becomes even more complex due to several reasons: the stigma associated with the mental health of African American women and the mental health complications that […]
  • Depression Symptoms and Cognitive Behavior Therapy The tone of the article is informative and objective, throughout the text the authors maintain an academic and scientific mood. The structure of the article is well organized and easy to read.
  • Proposal on Depression in Middle-Aged Women By understand the aspect of unhappiness among the young women; it will be easier for the healthcare institutions to formulate effective and appropriate approaches to reduce the menace in the society.
  • Biological Psychology: Lesion Studies and Depression Detection The purpose of this article is to share the research findings and discussion on the new methodological developments of Lesion studies.
  • Using AI to Diagnose and Treat Depression One of the main features of AI is the ability to machine learning, that is, to use data from past experiences to learn and modify algorithms in the future.
  • Artificial Intelligence Bot for Depression By increasing the availability and accessibility of mental health services, these technologies may also contribute to the development of cognitive science practices in Malaysia.
  • COVID-Related Depression: Lingering Signs of Depression The purpose of the article is to depict the research in a more approachable way, while the latter accentuates the importance of various factors and flaws of the results. While the former is more simplified, […]
  • Depression and Anxiety Among African Americans Finally, it should be insightful to understand the attitudes of friends and family members, so 5 additional interviews will be conducted with Black and White persons not having the identified mental conditions. The selected mental […]
  • Depression in Dialysis Patients: Treatment and Management If I were to conduct experimental research about the treatment and management of depression in dialysis patients, I would focus on finding the most effective and safe medication for the condition among adults.
  • The Serotonin Theory of Depression by Moncrieff et al. The serotonin theory of depression is closely related to antidepressants since the advent of SSRIs played a significant role in the popularization of the theory.
  • Avery’s Depression in “The Flick” Play by Baker The emotional and mental state of Avery, the only African-American character out of the three, is fairly obvious from the get-go when asked about why he is so depressed, the answer is: “Um.
  • Depression: A Quantitative-Qualitative Analysis A decision tree can be used due to the nature of the research question or hypothesis in place, the measurement of the dependent or research variable, the number of groups or independent variable levels, and […]
  • Depression Detection Tests Analysis The problem of the abundance of psychological tests leads to the need to compare multiple testing options for indicators of their purpose, features, and interpretations of the evaluation and validity.
  • Nursing Care for Patients With COVID-19 & Depression The significance of the selected problem contributed to the emergence of numerous research works devoted to the issue. This approach to choosing individuals guaranteed the increased credibility of findings and provided the authors with the […]
  • 16 Personality Factors Test for Depression Patient Pablos results, it is necessary to understand the interaction and pattern of the scores of the primary factors. A combination of high Apprehension and high Self-Reliance is a pattern describing a tendency to isolate oneself.
  • Depression in a 30-Year-Old Female Client In the given case, it would be useful to identify the patterns in Alex’s relationships and reconsider her responses to her partner.
  • Using the Neuman Model in the Early Diagnosis of Depression In the history of the academic development of nursing theories, there are a variety of iconic figures who have made significant contributions to the evolution of the discipline: one of them is Betty Neuman.
  • Depression in Primary Care: Screening and Diagnosis The clinical topics for this research are the incidence of depression in young adults and how to diagnose this disorder early in the primary care setting using screening tools such as PHQ9.
  • Major Depression and Cognitive Behavior Therapy Since the intervention had no significant effect on Lola, the paper will explore the physical health implication of anxiolytics and antidepressants in adolescents, including the teaching strategies that nurses can utilize on consumers to recognize […]
  • Jungian Psychotherapy for Depression and Anxiety They work as a pizza delivery man in their spare time from scientific activities, and their parents also send them a small amount of money every month.S.migrated to New York not only to get an […]
  • COVID-19 and Depression: The Impact of Nursing Care and Technology Nevertheless, combatting depression is a crucial step in posing positive achievements to recover from mental and physical wellness caused by COVID-19.
  • Depression Disorder Intervention The researchers evaluated the socioemotional signs of mental illnesses in a sample of diagnostically referred adolescents with clinical depression required to undergo regular cognitive behavioral therapy in a medical setting.
  • Financial Difficulties in Childhood and Adult Depression in Europe The authors found that the existence of closer ties between the catalyst of depression and the person suffering from depression leads to worse consequences.
  • Activity During Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression Studies have shown that women’s mood and cardiorespiratory fitness improve when they engage in moderate-intensity physical activity in the weeks and months after giving birth to a child.
  • Clinical Depression: Causes and Development Therefore, according to Aaron Beck, the causes and development of depression can be explained through the concepts of schema and negative cognitive triad.
  • Aspects of Working With Depression It also contributes to the maintenance and rooting of a bad mood, as the patient has sad thoughts due to the fact that the usual does not cause satisfaction.
  • Depression Among Nurses in COVID-19 Wards The findings are of great significance to researchers and governments and can indicate the prevalence of anxiety and depression among nurses working in COVID-19 wards in the North-East of England during the pandemic.
  • Depression Associated With Sleep Disorders Y, Chang, C. Consequently, it directly affects the manifestation of obstructive sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and periodic limb movement disorder in people with depression.
  • Depression in a 25-Year-Old Male Patient Moreover, a person in depression complains of the slowness in mental processes, notes the oppression of instincts, the loss of the instinct of self-preservation, and the lack of the ability to enjoy life.
  • Aspects and Manifestation of Depression Although, symptoms of depression in young people, in contrast to older adults, are described by psychomotor agitation or lethargy, fatigue, and loss of energy.
  • Complementary Therapy for Postpartum Depression in Primary Care Thus, the woman faced frustration and sadness, preventing her from taking good care of the child, and the lack of support led to the emergence of concerns similar to those in the past.
  • Depression and Anxiety Clinical Case Many of the factors come from the background and life experiences of the patient. The client then had a chance to reflect on the results and think of the possible alternative thoughts.
  • Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes and Depression Treatment The data synthesis demonstrates that carefully chosen depression and anxiety treatment is likely to result in better A1C outcomes for the patient on the condition that the treatment is regular and convenient for the patients.
  • Technology to Fight Postpartum Depression in African American Women I would like to introduce the app “Peanut” the social network designed to help and unite women exclusively, as a technology aimed at fighting postpartum depression in African American Women.
  • Complementary Therapy in Treatment of Depression Such practices lower the general level of anxiety and remove the high risks of manifestation of states of abulia, that is, clinical lack of will and acute depression.
  • Social Determinants of Health and Depression Among African American Adults The article “Social Determinants of Health and Depression among African American Adults: A Scoping Review of Current Research” examines the current research on the relationship between social determinants of health and depression among African American […]
  • Outcomes Exercise Has on Depression for People Between 45-55 Years According to the WHO, the rate of depression in the U.S.was 31. 5% as of October 2021, with the majority of the victims being adults aged between 45 and 55 years.
  • The Postpartum Depression in Afro-Americans Policy The distribution of the funds is managed and administered on the state level. Minnesota and Maryland focused on passing the legislation regulating the adoption of Medicaid in 2013.
  • Depression Among the Medicare Population in Maryland The statistics about the prevalence and comorbidity rates of depression are provided from the Medicare Chronic Conditions Dashboard and are portrayed in the table included in the paper.
  • Depression as Public Health Population-Based Issue In regard to particular races and ethnicities, CDC provided the following breakdown of female breast cancer cases and deaths: White women: 128 new cases and 20 deaths per 100.
  • Managing Mental Health Medications for Depression and its Ethical Contradiction The second objective is to discover ethical contradictions in such treatment for people of various cultures and how different people perceive the disorder and react to the medication.
  • Aspects of Depression and Obesity In some cases, people with mild to severe depression choose not to seek professional care and instead try to overcome their depression with self-help or the support of family and friends.
  • Antidepressant Treatment of Adolescent Depression At the same time, scientists evidenced that in the case of negative exposure to stress and depression, the human organism diminishes BDNF expression in the hippocampus.
  • Online Peer Support Groups for Depression and Anxiety Disorder The main objective of peer support groups is connecting people with the same life experiences and challenges to share and support each other in healing and recovery.
  • Depression in Adolescence and Treatment Approaches The age of adolescence, commonly referred to as children aged 10-19, is characterized by a variety of changes to one’s physical and mental health, as the child undergoes several stages of adjustment to the environment […]
  • Emotional Encounter With a Patient With Major Depression Disorder I shared this idea with him and was trying to create the treatment plan, sharing some general thoughts on the issue.
  • Childhood Depression in Sub-Saharan Africa According to Sterling et al, depression in early childhood places a significant load on individuals, relatives, and society by increasing hospitalization and fatality and negatively impacting the quality of life during periods of severe depression.
  • Anxiety and Depression: The Case Study As he himself explained, he is not used to positive affirmation due to low self-esteem, and his family experiences also point to the fact that he was not comforted often as a child.
  • Breastfeeding and Risk of Postpartum Depression The primary goal of the research conducted by Islam et al.was to analyze the correlation between exclusive breastfeeding and the risk of postpartum depression among new mothers.
  • Nursing Intervention in Case of Severe Depression The patient was laid off from work and went through a divorce in the year. This led to a change in prescribed medications, and the patient was put on tricyclic anti-depressants.
  • Screening for Depression in Acute Care The literature review provides EB analysis for the topic of depression to identify the need for an appropriate screening tool in addition to the PHQ-9 in the assessment evaluation process.
  • Social Media Use and the Risk of Depression Thapa and Subedi explain that the reason for the development of depressive symptoms is the lack of face to face conversation and the development of perceived isolation. Is there a relationship between social media use […]
  • Depression in the Field of a Healthcare Administrator According to Davey and Harrison, the most challenging part of healthcare administration in terms of depression is the presence of distorted views, shaped by patients’ thoughts.
  • The Treatment of Adolescents With Depression While treating a teenager with depression, it is important to maintain the link between the cause of the mental illness’ progression and the treatment.
  • Depression in the Lens of History and Humanities In terms of history, this paper analyzes the origin of depression and the progress made over the years in finding treatment and preventive mechanisms.
  • Depression in the Black Community The speaker said that her counselor was culturally sensitive, which presumes that regardless of the race one belongs to, a specialist must value their background.
  • Loneliness and Depression During COVID-19 While the article discusses the prevalence of loneliness and depression among young people, I agree that young people may be more subject to mental health problems than other population groups, but I do not agree […]
  • Depression Screening in the Acute Setting Hence, it is possible to develop a policy recommending the use of the PHQ-9, such as the EBDST, in the acute setting.
  • Ketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression: Neurobiology and Applications It is known that a violation of the functions of the serotonergic pathways leads to various mental deviations, the most typical of which is clinical depression.
  • Treating Obesity Co-Occurring With Depression In most cases, the efficiency of obesity treatment is relatively low and commonly leads to the appearance of a comorbid mental health disorder depression.
  • Treadmill Exercise Ameliorates Social Isolation-Induced Depression The groups included: the social isolation group, the control group, and the exercise and social isolation and exercise group. In the treadmill exercise protocol, the rat pups ran on the treadmill once a day for […]
  • Depression and Anxiety Among Chronic Pain Patients The researchers used The Depression Module of the Patient Health Questionnaire and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale to interview participants, evaluate their answers, and conduct the study.
  • The Depression Construct and Instrument Analysis For the therapist, this scaling allows to assess the general picture of the patient’s psychological state and obtain a result that is suitable for measurement.
  • Stress and Depression Among Nursing Students The study aims to determine how different the manifestations of stress and depression are among American nursing students compared to students of other disciplines and what supports nursing students in continuing their education.
  • Depression in Diabetes Patients The presence of depression concomitant to diabetes mellitus prevents the adaptation of the patient and negatively affects the course of the underlying disease.
  • Depression among Homosexual Males The literature used for the research on the paper aims to overview depression among homosexual males and describe the role of the nurse and practices based on the Recovery Model throughout the depression.
  • “What the Depression Did to People” by Edward Robb Ellis Nevertheless, the way the facts are grouped and delivered could be conducive to students’ ability to develop a clearer picture of the catastrophic downturn’s influences on the nation’s and the poor population’s mentalities.
  • Economic Inequality During COVID-19: Correlation With Depression and Addiction Thus, during the pandemic, people with lower incomes experienced depression and increased their addictive behaviors to cope with the stress of COVID-19.
  • Obesity Co-Occurring With Depression The assessment will identify the patient with the two conditions, address the existing literature on the issue, examine how patients are affected by organizational and governmental policies, and propose strategies to improve the patient experience.
  • Depression in the Black and Minority Ethnic Groups The third sector of the economy includes all non-governmental, non-profit, voluntary, philanthropic, and charitable organizations and social enterprises specializing in various types of activities, which did not find a place in either the public or […]
  • A Description on the Topic Screening Depression If there is the implementation of evidence-based care, a reduction in the proportion of disability for patients with depression would be expected. A proposal was written describing the need for screening depression patients of nearly […]
  • “Disclosure of Symptoms of Postnatal Depression, …” by Carolyn Chew-Graham Critique In light of hypothesizing the research question, the researchers suggest that health practitioners have the ability to create a conducive environment for the disclosure of information.
  • Depression – Psychotherapeutic Treatment Taking into account the fact that the specialist is not able to prescribe the medicine or a sort of treatment if he/she is not sure in the positive effect it might have on the health […]
  • Depression as a Major Health Issue The purpose of the study was to examine the implications of cognitive behavior approaches for depression in old women receiving health care in different facilities.
  • Effective Ways to Address Anxiety and Depression Looking deep into the roots of the problem will provide a vast and detailed vision of it, and will help to develop ways to enhance the disorders.
  • Einstepam: The Treatment of Depression The treatment of depression has greatly revolutionized since the development of tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors in the 1950s. In the brain, it inhibits the NMDA receptors and isoforms of NOS.
  • The Potential of Psilocybin in Treating Depression First of all, it is essential to understand the general effects of psilocybin on the brain that are present in the current literature.
  • Depression Among High School Students The major problem surrounding depression among adolescents is that they are rarely diagnosed in time and therefore do not receive treatment they need.
  • NICE Guidelines for Depression Management: Project Proposal This topic is of importance for VEGA because the center does not employ any specific depression management guidelines.
  • Depression: Diagnostics, Prevention and Treatment Constant communication with the patient and their relatives, purposeful questioning of the patient, special scales and tests, active observation of the patient’s appearance and behavior are the steps in the nursing diagnosis of depression.
  • Depression and Anxiety Intervention Plan John’s Wort to intervene for her condition together with the prescribed anti-depressant drugs, I would advise and educate her on the drug-to-drug relations, and the various complications brought about by combining St. Conducting proper patient […]
  • The Use of Psychedelic Drugs in Treating Depression This study aims to establish whether depressive patients can significantly benefit from psilocybin without substantial side effects like in the case of other psychedelic drugs.
  • Postpartum Depression Among the Low-Income U.S. Mothers Mothers who take part in the programs develop skills and knowledge to use the existing social entities to ensure that they protect themselves from the undesirable consequences associated with the PPD and other related psychological […]
  • The Beck Depression Contrast (BDI) The second difference between the two modes of the BDI is in the methodology of conducting the survey. This is where the interviewer first gets the history of the patient to try and get the […]
  • Depression: Description, Symptoms and Diagnosis, Prognosis and Treatment A diagnosis is made in situations where the symptoms persist for at least two weeks and lead to a change in the individual’s level of functioning.
  • Psychedelic Drugs and Their Effects on Anxiety and Depression The participants must also be willing to remain in the study for the duration of the experiments and consent to the drugs’ use.
  • VEGA Medical Center: The Quality of Depression Management This presentation is going to provide an overview of a project dedicated to the implementation of NICE guidelines at the VEGA Medical Center.
  • Anxiety and Depression in Hispanic Youth in Monmouth County Therefore, the Health Project in Monmouth County will help Hispanic children and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 to cope with anxiety and depression through behavioral therapy.
  • Anxiety Disorders and Depression In her case, anxiety made her feel that she needed to do more, and everything needed to be perfect. She noted that the background of her depression and anxiety disorders was her family.
  • Clinical Case Report: Depression It is possible to assume that being in close contact with a person who has depression also increases the probability of experiencing its symptoms.
  • PICO Analysis of Depression In other words, the causes of the given mental disorder can highly vary, and there is no sufficient evidence to point out a primary factor that triggers depression.
  • Interventions for Treating Depression after Stroke Inherently, the link between depression and stroke can be analyzed on the basis of post-stroke depression that is identified as the major neuropsychiatric corollary of stroke.
  • Depression: The Implications and Challenges in Managing the Illness At home, these people lack interest in their family and are not be able to enjoy the shared activities and company of the family.
  • Expression Symptoms of Depression A major finding of the critique is that although the research method and design are appropriate to this type of study, the results may be speculative in their validity and reliability as the researchers used […]
  • Researching Postnatal Depression Health professionals suggest that the fluctuations in the level of hormones cause changes in the chemical composition of the brain. The researcher has stated that the sample was selected from the general practitioners and health […]
  • The Older Women With Depression Living in Long-Term Care The researchers used the probability-sampling method to select the institutions that were included in the study. The health care professionals working in the nursing homes were interviewed to ascertain the diagnosis of depression as well […]
  • Medical Evaluation: 82-Year-Old Patient With Depression Her extreme level of weakness unfolded when the patient admitted that she lacked the strength to stand on her feet and to head back to her sleeping bed on a disastrous night.Mrs.
  • Depression in Adults: Community Health Needs The challenge of depression in the elderly is the recognition of signs and symptoms or the frequent underreporting of the symptoms of depression in adults over the age of 65.
  • The Discussion about Depression in Older Patients Depression is often identified as the most prevalent psychiatric disorder in the elderly and is usually determined by symptoms that belong to somatic, affective, and cognitive categories.
  • Depression in Older People in Australia Although a good number of depressed elderly patients aspire to play an active role in the treatment decision-making process, some prefer to delegate this role to their doctors.
  • In-Vitro Fertilization and Postpartum Depression The research was conducted through based on professional information sources and statistical data collected from the research study used to further validate the evidence and outcome of this study.
  • Depression: Screening and Diagnosis What he tries to do is to live a day and observe the changes that occur around. What do you do to change your attitude to life?
  • Depression in Australia. Evaluation of Different Factors In attempts to identify the biological causes of depression, the researchers focus on the analysis of brain functioning, chemical mediators, their correlations with the neurologic centers in the brain, and impact on the limbic system […]
  • Mental Health Paper: Depression The prevalence of mental health conditions has been the subject of many studies, with most of these highlighting the increase in these illnesses.
  • The Two Hit Model of Cytokine-Induced-Depression The association between IL-6 polymorphism and reduced risk of depressive symptoms confirms the role of the inflammatory response system in the pathophysiology of IFN-alpha-induced depression.
  • Ante-Partum & Postpartum Exposure to Maternal Depression The researchers engaged in the research work on this particular study topic by approaching it on the basis of maternal behavior and circumstances, as they connect to depressive conditions in their own lives and the […]
  • Depression in Australia, How Treat This Disorder According to The World Health Organization, depression is defined as a disorder in the mental health system that is presented with feelings of guiltiness, low concentration, and a decrease in the need for sleep.
  • Steroid Use and Teen Depression In this manner, the researcher will be in a position to determine which of the two indicators is strongest, and then later, the indicators can be narrowed down to the most basic and relevant.
  • Depression Among Minority Groups Mental disorders are among the major problems facing the health sector in America and across the world in the contemporary society.
  • Aspects and Definition of Depression: Psychiatry This is the personal counseling of a patient with the doctor, and it is one of the very best processes. In the case of a physician dealing with a mental patient, the most preferable way […]
  • Alcoholism and Depression: Intervention Strategies The intention of the research paper is to assess if indeed there is an association between alcoholism as manifested by Jackson, and a case of depression.
  • Depression and Paranoid Personality Disorder Bainbridge include: The analysis of paranoia and anxiety caused by substance abuse reveals that the diagnosis can be correct based on the symptoms, but the long-lasting nature of the symptoms rejects this diagnosis in favor […]
  • Antidepressant Drugs for Depression or Dysthymia These are the newer form of antidepressant that are based on both the principle of serotonin reuptake prevention and norepinephrine action.
  • The Relationship of Type 2 Diabetes and Depression Type 2 diabetes is generally recognized as an imbalance between insulin sensitivity and beta cell function We have chosen a rural area in Wisconsin where we can focus our study and select a group of […]
  • Teenage Depression and Alcoholism There also has been a demonstrated connection between alcoholism and depression in all ages; as such, people engage in alcoholism as a method of self medication to dull the feelings of depression, hopelessness and lack […]
  • “Relationships of Problematic Internet Use With Depression”: Study Strengths and Weaknesses One of the study strengths is that the subject selection process is excellently and well-designed, where the subjects represent the study sample, in general.
  • Depression Treatment: Biopsychosocial Theory More to the point, the roles of nurses, an interprofessional team, and the patient’s family will be examined regarding the improvement of Majorie’s health condition.
  • Postpartum Depression and Its Impact on Infants The goal of this research was “to investigate the prevalence of maternal depressive symptoms at 5 and 9 months postpartum in a low-income and predominantly Hispanic sample, and evaluate the impact on infant weight gain, […]
  • Postpartum Depression: Statistics and Methods of Diagnosis The incorporation of the screening tools into the existing electronic medical support system has proved to lead to positive outcomes for both mothers and children.
  • Comorbidity of Depression and Pain It is also known that dysregulation of 5-HT receptors in the brain is directly related to the development of depression and the regulation of the effects of substance P, glutamate, GABA and other pain mediators. […]
  • Hallucinations and Geriatric Depression Intervention Sandy has asserted further that the cleaners at the residence have been giving him the wrong medication since they are conspiring to end his life with the FBI.Mr.
  • Changes in Approaches to the Treatment of Depression Over the Past Decade In spite of the fact that over the past decade many approaches to the treatment of depression remained the same, a lot of new methods appeared and replaced some old ones due to the development […]
  • Management of Treatment-Resistant Depression The significance of the problem, the project’s aims, the impact that the project may have on the nursing practice, and the coverage of this condition are the primary focuses of this paper.
  • Teenage Depression: Psychology-Based Treatment This finding underlines the need to interrogate the issue of depression’s ontology and epistemology. Hence, there is the need to have an elaborate and comprehensive policy for addressing teenage depression.
  • Depression and Anxiety in Dialysis Patients However, the study indicates the lack of research behind the connection of depression and cognitive impairment, which is a significant limitation to the conclusive statement.
  • Adolescent Grief and Depression In looking for an activity that may help him or her keep away from the pain he or she is experiencing, the victim may decide to engage in sexual activities. Later, the adolescent is also […]
  • Suicide and Depression in Students Students who belong to racial and ethnic minorities constitute the group of risk connected with high depression and suicidal rates and it is the primary task of health teachers to reduce suicidal rates among all […]
  • Depression Disorder: Key Factors Epidemiology refers to the study of the distribution and determinants of health related events in specific populations and its applications to health problems.
  • Depression Effects of School Children However the present difficulties that he is going through being a 16 year old; may be associated to a possible cause of Down syndrome complications, or the feelings and behavioral deficiency he associates to the […]
  • Depression, Hallucination, and Suicide: Mental Cases How they handle the process determines the kind of aftermath they will experience for instance it can take the route of hallucinations which is treatable or suicide which is irreversible thus how each case is […]
  • Depression, Its Perspective and Management Therefore this paper seeks to point out that stress is a major ingredient of depression; show the causes, symptoms, highlight how stresses is manifested in different kinds of people, show how to manage stress that […]
  • Daily Living, Depression, and Social Support Activities of Elderly Turkish People Navigating the delicate and often convoluted maze of the current issues affecting the elderly has continued to present challenges to the professionals in the field especially with the realization that these issues and needs are […]
  • The Theory of Personality Psychology During Depression The study concerns personality pathology, and the results of the treatment given to patients who are under depression, and how personalities may have adverse effects on the consequences of the cure.
  • Depression and the Media Other components of the cognitive triad of depression are the aspect of seeing the environment as overwhelming and that one is too small to make an impact and also seeing the future as bleak and […]
  • Poor Body Image, Anxiety, and Depression: Women Who Undergo Breast Implants H02: There is no difference in overt attractiveness to, and frequency of intimacy initiated by, the husband or cohabitating partner of a breast implant patient both before and after the procedure.
  • Reducing Anxiety and Depression With Exercise Regardless of the type of results achieved, it is recommendable for people undergoing mental problems like depression and anxiety to exercise regularly.
  • Depression: A Cognitive Perspective Therefore, the cause of depression on this line may be a real shortage of skills, accompanied by negative self-evaluation because the individual is more likely to see the negative aspects or the skills he lacks […]
  • Stress, Depression and Psychoneuroimmunology The causes and symptoms of stress may vary from person to person and the symptoms can be mental as well as physical.
  • A Critical Evaluation of Major Depression This paper has actively shown how factors such as financial insecurity, job loss, income, and educational inequalities, lifestyle diseases, and breakdown of the social fabric have acted to propel the mental disorder by making use […]
  • Depression, Substance Abuse and Suicide in Elderly
  • Adult Depression Sufferer’s and Withdrawal From Family and Friends
  • Depression: Helping Students in the Classroom
  • Major Depression: Treating Depression in the Context of Marital Discord
  • Family Therapy for Treating Major Depression
  • Adverse Childhood Experiences Cause Depression
  • Depression and Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Rumination, Perfectionism and Depression in Young People
  • “Gender Differences in Depression” by Nolen-Hoeksema
  • Anxiety and Depression Disorders
  • Beck’s Cognitive Therapy Approach to Depression Treatment
  • Cannabis Abuse Increases the Risk of Depression
  • Depression: Risk Factors, Incidence, Preventive Measures & Prognostic Factors
  • Depression Diagnostics Methods
  • Concept Analysis of Loneliness, Depression, Self-esteem
  • Teen Suicide and Depression
  • Depression and Diabetes Association in Adults
  • The Correlation Between Perfectionism and Depression
  • Geriatric Dementia, Delirium, and Depression
  • Dementia, Delirium, and Depression in Older Adults
  • Dealing with Depression in the Workplace
  • Depression in People With Alcohol Dependence
  • Depression and Anxiety Due to School and Work-Related Stress
  • Creating a Comprehensive Psychological Treatment Plan: Depression
  • Experimental Psychology. Bouldering for Treating Depression
  • Depression and Psychotherapy in Adolescence
  • Postpartum Depression: Treatment and Therapy
  • Atypical Depression Symptoms and Treatment
  • Dementia, Delirium, and Depression in Frail Elders
  • Depression & Patient Safety: Speak Up Program
  • Mindfulness Meditation Therapy in Depression Cases
  • A Review of Postpartum Depression and Continued Post Birth Support
  • Psychodynamic Therapy for Depression
  • Depression Screening in Primary Care for Adolescents
  • Freud’s Depression: Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions
  • Optimal Mental Health Approaches: Depression & Anxiety
  • Great Depression in “A Worn Path” by Eudora Welty
  • Depression in Adolescents and Interventions
  • Bipolar Disorder: Reoccurring Hypomania & Depression
  • Postpartum Depression: Understanding the Needs of Women
  • Major Depression Treatment During Pregnancy
  • Patients’ Depression and Practitioners’ Suggestions
  • Traditional Symptoms of Depression
  • Social Media Impact on Depression and Eating Disorder
  • Anxiety and Depression in Children and Adolescents
  • Depression Studies and Online Research Sources
  • Depression and Drug Dependence Treatment and Support
  • Depression Explanation in Psychological Theories
  • Food Insecurity and Depression in Poor Families
  • Peer Popularity and Depression Among Adolescents
  • Alcohol Abuse, Depression and Human Trafficking
  • Depression Assessment Using Intake Notes
  • Depression in Adolescents and Cognitive Therapy
  • Diagnosing Depression: Implementation and Evaluation Plan
  • Beck Depression Inventory: Evaluation Plan
  • Depression in Iranian Women and Health Policies
  • Depression Patients and Psychiatrist’s Work
  • Depression Patients’ Needs and Treatment Issues
  • Suicide and Depression: Connection, Signs and Age
  • Health Promotion: Depression Awareness in Teenagers
  • Depression and Cancer in Caucasian Female Patient
  • Depression in Patients with Comorbidity
  • Depression After Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Treatment
  • Depression and Psychosis: 32-Year-Old Female Patient
  • Postpartum Depression and Acute Depressive Symptoms
  • Women with Heart Disease: Risk of Depression
  • Postpartum Depression and Its Peculiarities
  • Exercises as a Treatment for Depression
  • Depression Treatment Changes in 2006-2017
  • Depression in Elders: Social Factors
  • False Memories in Patients with Depression
  • Postpartum Depression Analysis in “Yellow Wallpaper”
  • The Canadian Depression Causes
  • Widowhood Effects on Men’s and Women’s Depression
  • Teen Website: Fish Will Keep Depression Away
  • Bipolar Expeditions: Mania and Depression
  • Obesity and Major Depression Association
  • Fast Food, Obesity, Depression, and Other Issues
  • Depression in the Future Public Health
  • Depression: Patients With a Difficult Psychological State
  • Depression: Pathophysiology and Treatment
  • Stress, Depression, and Responses to Them
  • Problem of the Depression in Teenagers
  • Supporting the Health Needs of Patients With Parkinson’s, Preeclampsia, and Postpartum Depression
  • Hamilton Depression Rating Scale Application
  • Psychological Measures: The Beck Depression Inventory
  • Yoga for Depression and Anxiety
  • Sleep Disturbance, Depression, Anxiety Correlation
  • Depression in Late Life: Interpersonal Psychotherapy
  • Postpartum Depression and Comorbid Disorders
  • Arab-Americans’ Acculturation and Depression
  • Organizational Behaviour: Depression in the Workplace
  • Relationship Between Depression and Sleep Disturbance
  • Child’s Mental Health and Depression in Adulthood
  • Parents’ Depression and Toddler Behaviors
  • Managing Stress and Depression at Work Places – Psychology
  • Job’ Stress and Depression
  • Depression Measurements – Psychology
  • Methodological Bias Associated with Sex Depression
  • Relationship Between Sleep and Depression in Adolescence
  • The Effects of Depression on Physical Activity
  • Psychological Disorder: Depression
  • Depression and Workplace Violence
  • The Effects of Forgiveness Therapy on Depression, Anxiety and Posttraumatic Stress for Women After Spousal Emotional Abuse
  • Depression Diagnosis and Theoretical Models
  • The Impact of Exercise on Women Who Suffer From Depression
  • Evolutionary Psychology: Depression
  • Effect of Social Media on Depression
  • Depression in the Elderly
  • Poly-Substance Abuse in Adolescent Males With Depression
  • How Does Peer Pressure Contribute to Adolescent Depression?
  • How Do Genetic and Environmental Factors Contribute To The Expression of Depression?
  • Depression and Cognitive Therapy
  • Cognitive Treatment of Depression
  • Book Review: “Breadwinning Daughters: Young Women Working in a Depression- Era City, 1929-1939” by Katrina Srigley
  • Depression: A Critical Evaluation
  • Psychopharmacological Treatment for Depression
  • “Breadwinning Daughters: Young Working Women in a Depression-Era City” by Katrina Srigley
  • Depression in female adolescents
  • Interpersonal Communication Strategies Regarding Depression
  • Depression: Law Enforcement Officers and Stress
  • Social Influences on Behavior: Towards Understanding Depression and Alcoholism Based on Social Situations
  • Depression Experiences in Law Enforcement
  • Childhood Depression & Bi-Polar Disorder
  • Depression Psychological Evaluation
  • Concept of Childhood Depression
  • Correlation Between Multiple Pregnancies and Postpartum Depression or Psychosis
  • Depression and Its Effects on Participants’ Performance in the Workplace
  • Catatonic Depression: Etiology and Management
  • The Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI) Measure
  • Depression: A Cross-Cultural Perspective
  • Depression Levels and Development
  • Depression Treatment: Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
  • Concept of Depression Disorder
  • Does Divorce Have a Greater Impact on Men than on Women in Terms of Depression?
  • Oral versus Written Administration of the Geriatric Depression Scale

❓Research Questions for a Depression Essay

  • Does Poverty Impact Depression in African American Adolescents and the Development of Suicidal Ideations?
  • Does Neighborhood Violence Lead to Depression Among Caregivers of Children With Asthma?
  • Does Parent Depression Correspond With Child Depression?
  • How Depression Affects Our Lives?
  • Does Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Have an Effect on Depression Levels in Elderly Women?
  • How Can Overcome Depression Through 6 Lifestyle Changes?
  • Does Maternal Depression Have a Negative Effect on Parent-Child Attachment?
  • Can Providers’ Education About Postpartum Depression?
  • Can Vacation Help With Depression?
  • How Children Deal With Depression?
  • Can Diet Help Stop Depression and Violence?
  • Does Depression Assist Eating Disorders?
  • Does Depression Lead to Suicide and Decreased Life Expectancy?
  • Can Obesity Cause Depression?
  • Can Exercise Increase Fitness and Reduce Weight in Patients With Depression?
  • Does Fruit and Vegetable Consumption During Adolescence Predict Adult Depression?
  • Does Depression Cause Cancer?
  • Does Money Relieve Depression?
  • Does the Average Person Experience Depression Throughout Their Life?
  • Are Vaccines Cause Depression?
  • Does Social Anxiety Lead to Depression?
  • Does Stress Cause Depression?
  • How Bipolar and Depression Are Linked?
  • Does Postpartum Depression Affect Employment?
  • Does Postpartum Depression Predict Emotional and Cognitive Difficulties in 11-Year-Olds?
  • Does Regular Exercise Reduce Stress Levels, and Thus Reduce Symptoms of Depression?
  • Does the Natural Light During Winters Really Create Depression?
  • How Can Art Overcome Depression?
  • How Anxiety and Depression Are Connected?
  • Does Positive Psychology Ease Symptoms of Depression?
  • Bullying Research Topics
  • Conflict Research Topics
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Topics
  • Disease Questions
  • Burnout Questions
  • Hyperactivity Disorder Research Ideas
  • Insomnia Questions
  • Eating Disorders Questions
  • Chicago (A-D)
  • Chicago (N-B)

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Bibliography

IvyPanda . "327 Depression Essay Titles & Examples." February 24, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/depression-essay-examples/.

Overcoming depression

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overcome depression essay

Personal Stories

My depression in my life.

By Leah Anonymous

Depression is something that shows itself differently for everyone. There is no one person, or one story, or one experience that can make someone universally understand truly how depression alters the lives of those of us who suffer from it. I can’t make anyone understand how it is for everyone, but I can tell you how it alters my life, and maybe that will help people understand how all-encompassing it really is.

For me there are two main ways that my depression manifests itself when it breaks through the barriers I have set with the help of years of therapy and medication. There is the gut wrenching loneliness and near constant anxiety and then there is the checking out, the feeling nothing at all, the numbness. Sometimes I don’t know which is worse, but I will try to explain both.

The Loneliness and Anxiety:

In some ways I consider this step one of when my depression spikes because it always seems to come first. But I don’t consider it step one in levels of horribleness. Like I said above I really think that both ways my depression hits me are pretty awful and I couldn’t say which is worse.

You know that feeling you have in your gut when you are about to and/or really need to cry. While that is what it is like. All the time. I could be laughing and having a great time with my friends, which I often am because my friends are great, and yet in the back of my mind I feel more alone than ever and I just want to curl up into fetal position and cry. But I never can. I can’t go home and cry and then feel better, because it’s not like there is something to cry about, or really anything to be sad about. And it isn’t really sadness. It is complete solitude. It’s when my brain tells me that I am alone, that I can’t be loved, that no one really wants me around, and worst of all that no one will understand me.

That is worst of all because at the place I am in my life, no matter what I have been through in the past, or what my depression tries to make me believe I know that I can be loved, that I’m not alone and that I am wanted. And I know that because of the hard work I have done to get to that place in my life, and because of some of the amazing people in my life who make sure that I know that they are there for me, that they love me, and that they want to spend time with me.

But the idea that no one will ever truly understand who I am, or any of that. That is a little harder to dissuade myself from believing. Because as much as I can tell people what I went, and still go through and what goes through my mind, who can really understand me other than me. And that isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but the way my depression tells me it, it is a bad thing.

So there I am surrounded by people, very possibly having some of the best experiences of my life, feeling like I need to bawl, completely unable to, and nearly having an anxiety attack because I just want it to end.

And it is here where two things happen. It is here where I wish for and welcome the numbness because I don’t want to feel the all-encompassing loneliness and anxiety. It is also where I think about cutting.

I have not cut myself in three and a half years. And I know that it doesn’t solve my problems. I know that I shouldn’t and I don’t want to. Even when I want to I don’t want to.

But here, when I am feeling the all-encompassing loneliness which is the very last thing that I want to feel, I think about cutting because it lets me feel something else.

The physical act of cutting gives me something to think about and focus on, something other than that loneliness. And when I am not physically cutting, instead of thinking about how lonely I am and how that feeling will never end I think about the next time I can cut, or the most recent time I did.

And Then The Numbness:

I don’t really know how to explain this numbness. It is simply a period of time where I feel literally nothing. I fake happiness/normal emotion around friends, not always very well, and when I am alone I just don’t care about anything.

This is when my grades often fall because I don’t care about anything, including school, and therefore school work.

And then, sometimes I just want to feel something, anything, and so that is when I think about cutting. I think about cutting because it gives me something to feel, something I can control, but still feel.

The numbness comes because I can’t handle what I’m thinking and feeling, because it is too much for me to deal with, so I shut everything off so I don’t have to feel it.

In some ways, cutting transitions me back into feeling. But again, cutting, NOT A SOLUTION, NOT HEALTHY.

And something that I no longer do.

Now, for the past three and a half years, whenever I think of cutting, which I still do. It is still my first thought in either of these situations, I instead do one of the many things that I have come to know to help me cope.

For example, I force myself to spend more time with my friends, because I know that the loneliness will pass and I can talk myself out of feeling lonely when I am not physically alone.

I read/watch anything romantic. I pretend that I am one of the characters, and then I feel what they feel instead of what I am feeling (or preventing myself from feeling).

I belt along to old school Taylor Swift. Because what is more beautiful than a summer romance in a small country town with Chevy trucks and Tim McGraw?

And though my schoolwork does still sometimes fall through the cracks, I always make myself do some work.

Basically I force myself to live my life, because well, it is my life, and I refuse to live it feeling alone when I’m not, and numb when I could be great.

So even though I do feel those things far more often than I would like it is something that I live with, because I have depression.

Because depression is a disease, and I will always have it.

Because my depression is a part of who I am.

And most of all, because I only have one life, and I want to live it. Because even though when my depression spikes it makes me want to not live sometimes, I refuse.

Because I am the author of my own life and I choose to put a semicolon instead of a period at every point that my depression tells me otherwise.

So that is how my depression affects my life. That is how I deal with it. Like it or not I always will.

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Overcoming Depression

This essay will address strategies and methods for overcoming depression. It will discuss various approaches such as therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support networks. The piece will emphasize the importance of seeking help and understanding depression as a treatable mental health condition, along with sharing stories of recovery and hope. At PapersOwl too, you can discover numerous free essay illustrations related to Depression.

How it works

Supporting close people, even when the patient does not express an interest in it, is very important for overcoming depression. Remember that depression is a disease in which one needs understanding, but in no case sink into sickness together with the patient, sharing his pessimism and despair. You need to be able to maintain a certain emotional distance, all the time reminding yourself and the patient that depression is a passing emotional state. Try not to concentrate on the illness of a loved one and bring positive emotions into your life and family life.

If possible, try to involve the patient in some useful activity.

Adults who suffer from depression tend to react appropriately, in an adult way. They have a sad face, they are weak and inactive, they cry, they are feverish, they suffer from insomnia, guilt and insecurity. Children, teenagers, experiencing the same sensations, but this could be a signal for friends and parents. They disguise their true feelings. Some resort to destructive patterns of behavior: they drink, take drugs, are hostile to others, commit unlawful acts. Almost half of adolescents who take drugs begin to do this during depression.

Unfortunately, adults often notice only external manifestations, not trying to look more closely and understand the reasons. West Joe says “Results Children of mothers with perinatal depression had a 40% increased risk of gastrointestinal infections and a 27% increased risk of lower respiratory tract infections compared with children of mothers without perinatal depression” (West Joe, 799) Many parents are to blame for not being able to hear what the children are saying to them, they do not want to see the problems of their children. After all, this evidence that they cannot cope with their parental functions. Very often they react to the depression of their children by irritation, which only worsens the situation.

It is a mistake to imagine patients that careful medication and psychotherapeutic exercises can quickly eliminate depression. It is extremely necessary to actively participate in the process of treatment. At first it is difficult, almost impossible, but with every day there is more and more strength, more and more confidence, and then you bravely enter the fight. Physical exercises or any physical activity help to cheer up, and not just because you are distracted from your problems – it increases muscle tone. Active exercises cause the brain to release natural substances – endorphins. These substances are produced by the human body and are close to antidepressants and neuroleptics.

It is very important that physical exercises maximally affect the muscle tone. Swimming in the pool, playing tennis on the court or digging up beds in the villa area, your muscles must feel physical load. And the more these sensations are brighter, the better for your body. In addition, the exercises make you better treat yourself, and when you are more self-centered, you get a new charge of power to further combat depression.

I think that seasonal or shallow depressions, usually accompanied by unknown despondency and apathy, are, in a sense, the same colds, only on a mental level. A depressed person changes in his perception, in reactions to the surrounding world, becomes, in a sense, ‘himself does not look like himself.’ Everything that used to be habitual and easy becomes painful, it seems like losing strength. Many in this state try to ‘keep themselves in hand’, convincingly force themselves to behave as if everything is in order, live and work at the same pace and perform normal for a healthy self-load. In the depths of soul, such a person thinks that time will pass and he will ‘let go’ by himself.

When a person is depressed, it is very difficult for him to start doing something to get out of the state of emotional depression. We have to make efforts, somehow overcome ourselves. If you manage to do something and get a little distracted, then after a while you feel relief. If you get rid of tormenting thoughts from your head, go to work or study with your head, it will almost certainly get better. But, for how long?

A person learns not to pay attention to symptoms, becomes less sensitive and even over time becomes proud of his own thick-skinniness, as if suppressing the dictates of his own soul makes him stronger. But this is self-deception! The person does not develop, but, on the contrary, becomes stale, and from this his inner world becomes poorer, and the depression intensifies. When depressed, the crisis is on the verge of collapse. This is already a disease, and you need to seek help, just as you seek help from a dentist when the tooth is aching. This is normal and natural. And the presence of repeated depressive states is a clear signal of a lack of concern for one’s mental health. I’m not trying to do advertising on this in order to increase the influx of clients of a psychologist

. A good psychologist has so much work to do, here it is in another – in the time of life. Depression, inactive and lengthy, consumes not only strength, but also the time of a person’s life. His best time is when he is young and full of energy. Kok, Rob M. writes “Depression presents with the same symptoms in older adults as it does in younger population” (Kok, Rob M., 2114) How many days, months or years of your own unique one-of-a-kind life are you ready to devote to ‘suffering’? Or, maybe, still it makes sense to go through several sessions of psychotherapy and spend the rest of the time more important and necessary things for you? Life is short, and most people live as if they are going to live forever.

After the exit from the emotional ‘corkscrew’ begins the main, most important work with the problems of depression and it will for the most part be independent and not at all simple. It is important to understand that to take care of one’s inner world, to develop one’s own spirituality is necessary and natural, just as we understand the need to expose the body to physical activity to maintain a tone so that muscles do not atrophy, that we will not lose strength, that there is strong health, and, as a result, – good health, high quality of life and full longevity.

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How to Fight Depression Without Medication

Nancy Schimelpfening, MS is the administrator for the non-profit depression support group Depression Sanctuary. Nancy has a lifetime of experience with depression, experiencing firsthand how devastating this illness can be.

Daniel B. Block, MD, is an award-winning, board-certified psychiatrist who operates a private practice in Pennsylvania.

overcome depression essay

Get More Sleep

Cut back on caffeine, get more vitamin d, try natural remedies, tap into your spirituality.

  • Get More Exercise

Avoid Alcohol

  • Eat 'Good Mood' Food

Change Your Thoughts

Get a handle on stress, add greenery to your home or office, tend to your social life, try new things, have a daily routine, listen to upbeat music.

For many people living with depression (it's estimated that 1 in 5 U.S. adults have received a depression diagnosis in their lifetime), prescription medications can be life-saving drugs. Antidepressants , such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac (fluoxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline), are the most widely prescribed medication for depression, and while they are often effective, they can have side effects and be expensive depending on your health insurance coverage.

There are many ways to counter some of the symptoms of depression that don't involve prescription medications. If you have depression, you might like to try managing it naturally without medication or supplement your antidepressant with other options. If so, check out these natural alternatives and then talk to your doctor about which might make sense as part of your treatment regimen .

This article discusses some natural treatments that may help fight depression including lifestyle changes and supplements. It also covers other strategies you might try such as practicing mindfulness or enhancing your home environment.

Sleep and mood go hand in hand. Get too little of the former and the latter is bound to be affected whether you have depression or not. To support your emotional well-being, make sure you have what sleep experts call "good sleep hygiene."

This means you keep consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, your bedroom is set up for sound sleep (it's dark, quiet, and uncluttered), you have a relaxing bedtime routine that doesn't involve sitting in front of a screen, and so on.

The relationship between sleep and depression can be complex. Not only is poor sleep thought to contribute to the onset of depression, but depression may then cause low quality sleep.

Whether you can't seem to get any sleep or can't seem to stop sleeping, there are steps you can take to try to improve the quality of your sleep:

  • Give yourself time to unwind before you go to bed; do something relaxing and avoid stressful tasks or thoughts.
  • Go to bed at the same time each night, and set an alarm so that you wake at the same time each morning.
  • Have a consistent bedtime routine.
  • Turn off your devices and try reading a book for a few minutes.

Also, try to spend a little time outside each day, even on days when you are tempted to draw the shades and hide indoors. Light plays an important role in regulating sleep cycles and circadian rhythms, so a lack of sunshine may be making it more difficult to sleep at night.

Coffee, tea, soda, and even chocolate are steeped in caffeine. It's fine to consume a reasonable amount of caffeine in the morning if you enjoy it, but avoid it after late afternoon so it doesn't interfere with sleep.

If you do tend to rely on caffeine, try cutting back gradually in order to avoid unpleasant symptoms of caffeine withdrawal . When you are craving a soda or cup of coffee, try going for a short walk around the block instead.

There's some evidence that a vitamin D deficiency could play a role in depression. If you aren't getting enough vitamin D through your diet and lifestyle (like sun exposure), ask your doctor if you should try taking a supplement.

Certain nutrient deficiencies can play a role in depression symptoms. If you are having a difficult time spending enough time outdoors or if overcast weather conditions make it hard to get sunshine, a supplement may be useful.

Some research suggests that there are natural antidepressants that may help reduce symptoms of depression. For treating mild to moderate depression, dietary supplements such as St. John's Wort , S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e), and 5-Hydroxytryptophan ( 5-HTP ) may be worth a try.

In the past, 5-HTP has been contaminated with the same peak-x adulterant that led to eosinophilic-myalgic syndrome and caused nearly 300 deaths in Japan. It is important to note that dietary supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, so it is essential to use them cautiously.

Research has shown that St. John's wort is more effective than a placebo at relieving symptoms in those with mild-to-moderate depression.

Omega-3 fatty acids have also been investigated for their potential impact on depression. One 2015 study found that taking omega-3 supplements may help reduce symptoms of depression in both adults and children, although researchers are not entirely sure how or why.

While natural remedies can be good options for depression treatment, you should always consult your healthcare provider before taking them. Just because they're available without a prescription and are touted as natural doesn't mean they're always safe.

Additionally, research on some of these natural antidepressants remains inconclusive and some may cause unwanted side effects or drug interactions. For example, mixing St. John's wort with an SSRI such as Prozac can lead to a complication called serotonin syndrome . Also, SAM-e carries a risk for hypomania/mania in bipolar disorder.

Some herbs and other supplements may work as natural antidepressants, but that does not mean that they are safe and appropriate for everyone or come without side effects. The effectiveness of these natural remedies is also not always clear, so always talk to your doctor first.

Religion can be an impactful source of support for many people dealing with depression, but there is no need to join a church, synagogue, or mosque unless you wish to. Simple daily practices such as meditation or adding to a list of things you're grateful can help boost mood and overall well-being.

Meditation can have a range of beneficial effects such as lowering stress levels and helping people to become more aware of their thoughts and reactions.

Research indicates that an intervention called mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) , which combines elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with mindfulness meditation, can be helpful in treating depression and preventing future relapses of symptoms.

Studies also suggest that different types of mindfulness meditative practices can also be effective in the treatment of depression.

There are many different types of meditation, but you can get started with a simple meditative exercise with these steps:

  • Sit comfortably.
  • Close your eyes.
  • Breathe naturally.
  • Focus on how your body feels while you breathe.
  • When your mind wanders, redirect your attention back to your breathing.

Get More Exercise 

Getting more exercise doesn't have to mean training for a marathon, but it does mean putting in a half-hour or so of low-intensity activity each day, which has been found to be effective in improving mood and quality of life. Even better, take it outdoors. Fresh air and sunshine are especially healing for folks dealing with a special form of depression known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

While research has shown that regular physical activity can be effective in both the prevention and treatment of depression, it can be hard to start an exercise habit when you're depressed. Lack of energy and low mood may mean that you simply feel too fatigued to get up and get active.

Some things that you can try to stick to your habit:

  • Enlist a friend . Ask a loved one to walk with you or do another form of exercise at least a few times a week. Having the support of a friend can not only help get you into a routine, but it can also help you maintain those social connections when you are feeling down.
  • Remind yourself of the benefits . Getting started is tough, but doing it is something that will help you feel better in the long term.
  • Start small . Try walking for just a few minutes each day, then work on gradually increasing your walks.

Alcohol in and of itself is a depressant . Drinking can interfere with sleep, and quality sleep is a key to battling the blues. While alcohol might seem like a quick fix to escape what you are feeling, it can actually make many of the symptoms of depression feel much worse.

Not only that, but it can decrease inhibitions and potentially lead to risky behaviors and bad decisions that can have long-term consequences.

If you're taking any sort of antidepressant, you really shouldn't drink at all. Alcohol doesn't interact well with medication.

If you have been misusing alcohol or other substances and need help quitting, talk to your doctor. You may also have an alcohol or substance use disorder . Withdrawal symptoms may temporarily worsen symptoms of depression, so you may need extra assistance as you go through the recovery process.

Eat 'Good Mood' Food

What you eat can have a direct effect on how you think and feel. Make sure to eat a well-balanced diet that's rich in nutrients. A nutritionist or dietitian can help you analyze your eating habits and pinpoint potential nutrient deficiencies that could contribute to depression.

Some foods that may be especially beneficial when you have depression include:

  • Fish : Research has found that people who ate a diet high in fish were less likely to have symptoms of depression. Fish are high in omega-3 fats, which play a role in helping neurotransmitters such as serotonin work in the brain.
  • Nuts : Nuts are also a good source of omega-3 fats and one study indicated that people who ate walnuts were 26% less likely to have symptoms of depression.
  • Probiotics : Research is increasingly pointing to a connection between gut and brain health. Foods high in probiotics include yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and kombucha.

Pollyanna-ish as it may sound, thinking good thoughts can help you feel good. Your thoughts truly do have a direct bearing on your mood. If you're struggling with negativity, consider seeing a therapist to help you learn ways to counter it.

One of the most popular and effective treatments used in the treatment of depression is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) . This form of psychotherapy focuses on identifying negative thinking patterns and then replacing them with more positive ones. There are different ways that you can practice some of these ideas on your own.

Learn to Recognize Negative Thinking

Sometimes these thoughts can be obvious, such as times when you berate or criticize yourself. Other times, they can be more subtle. You might find yourself engaging in things like catastrophizing or all-or-nothing thinking.

Catastrophizing involves always anticipating negative outcomes. All-or-nothing thinking means that you think of things as either successes or failures with no in-between. Once you get better at recognizing these cognitive patterns, you can start working on some healthier replacements.

Reframe Your Thoughts

When you find yourself having a negative thought, consciously reframe it in a positive way. For example, you might replace something like "This will never work" with something more positive such as, "Here are a few things that I can try that will help me get started." Shifting your focus to your strengths and abilities can help you maintain a more positive mindset.

CBT is an effective treatment for depression that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to feelings of depression. You can try these strategies on your own by becoming more aware of negative thinking and shifting them to be more realistic and positive.

Stress can drive up levels of a brain chemical called cortisol , which has been found to be higher in folks with depression. There are lots of strategies for coping with stress, such as time management, meditation, and  biofeedback training .

Some stress-relieving activities that you might want to incorporate into your daily life include:

  • Deep breathing : A few minutes to slow your breathing and focus your attention on your body in the moment can help you get a better handle on your worries.
  • Exercise : Regular physical activity is a great way to blow off steam.
  • Progressive muscle relaxation : This process involves intentionally tightening muscles throughout the body, holding that tension for several counts, and then releasing that tension until the muscles are completely relaxed. With regular practice, you may be able to learn how to intentionally relax your body fairly quickly whenever you are feeling tense.

Learning to manage your stress takes time and practice. Talk to your doctor or therapist about other strategies you might try to minimize the stress and your response to it.

You may also find it helpful to add indoor plants to your home or office environment. Natural settings are associated with improved mental well-being, so it makes sense that "bringing the outdoors in" might help improve your mood. 

Studies have shown that adding indoor plants to your home or office can help in a variety of ways, including:

  • Improving the workplace : Research has shown that office spaces enhanced with indoor plants improve worker concentration and workplace satisfaction.
  • Reducing stress levels : Another study found that actively interacting with indoor plans by caring for them can reduce both physiological and psychological stress.
  • Decreasing depression and anxiety : Research has found that students who spent most of their time at home during the COVID-19 pandemic had better mental health if they were exposed to more green plants. While about a third of the participants reported symptoms of moderate depression , those exposed to more greenery had lower levels of depression and anxiety.

Choosing certain plants may provide additional benefits. For example, research suggests that the scent of a lavender plant can help people feel calmer and more relaxed.  No matter what type of plants you choose, greenery can be a great way to beautify your surroundings and potentially improve your mood.

When you're depressed, there's no reason to go it alone, and there are all sorts of reasons to reach out to friends and family . Make plans with loved ones and keep those dates. Join a club or sign up for a group activity such as a local dodgeball league or a French class.

Other things you might try:

  • Join a support group . Talking to other people who are going through similar experiences and challenges can be informative and helpful.
  • Schedule activities . Having routines can be helpful when you are going through depression. Create a daily schedule that includes spending time with others. You are more likely to stick to it if it's a scheduled event.
  • Volunteer . Joining a cause that you care about is a great way to meet new people and expand your social circle.

The problem is that depression often causes people to withdraw, which only further exacerbates feelings of isolation and loneliness . Even when you don't feel like going out or being social, try reaching out in whatever way is most comfortable for you. Enlist a few of your closest loved ones who understand what you are experiencing.

Doing the things you used to do might not bring you quite the same enjoyment when you are depressed, but getting out of the house and spending time with people who care about you can help you feel better.

Depression often zaps your interest and motivation to explore new things. You might find it helpful to develop a list of things you might like to try, then work through them one at a time. You might have to compel yourself to try them, and you might find that you don't necessarily have the motivation to pursue new things beyond your initial attempt.

But over time, you might find that something sparks your interest or helps you feel more motivated. It's not always easy, but consider making it a goal to try at least one new thing each week. It may help you fight off a sense of boredom and give you something to look forward to.

The symptoms of depression can also make it difficult to stick to a schedule, but research suggests that having a routine can be critical for mental health. Maintaining a routine can also help you hold on to a sense of normalcy and stability when you are dealing with feelings of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Not having a daily routine, on the other hand, can increase your feelings of stress and leave you feeling overwhelmed and unable to focus. So work on having a schedule that includes the basic things you need to get done as well as plenty of self-care.

There's no doubt that music can have an impact on how you feel , so choosing the right music when you're feeling down might be an effective way of lifting your mood.

Research has found people who are depressed may have a tendency to choose music that intensifies rumination, sadness, and emotion-focused coping. So while you might be tempted to turn to somber tearjerkers when you're feeling down, consider listening to more upbeat songs to boost your mood and inspire positive feelings.

Depression is a serious condition that may grow worse over time if left untreated. There are a number of natural ways to combat feelings of depression if you don't want to take prescription antidepressant medication. These strategies can also be helpful when used to complement treatments that may include psychotherapy and medication. 

Get Help Now

We've tried, tested, and written unbiased reviews of the best online therapy programs including Talkspace, Betterhelp, and Regain. Find out which option is the best for you.

You should talk to your doctor or therapist to find the best approach to treating your depression. Many lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep may help improve your symptoms. Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements to treat depression, since these might have side effects of their own or may interfere with or interact with other medications you may be taking.

If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.

For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database .

A Word From Verywell

Always take symptoms of depression seriously as depression doesn't just go away on its own . While there are many things you can do to support your mental health, don't try to just handle your symptoms alone. Talk to your doctor and discuss some of the self-help strategies that may support your treatment.

Press Play for Advice On Managing Depression

Hosted by therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast shares how to find the courage to face depression, featuring Olympic gold medalist Laurie Hernandez. Click below to listen now.

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Segal ZV, Bieling P, Young T, et al. Antidepressant monotherapy vs sequential pharmacotherapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, or placebo, for relapse prophylaxis in recurrent depression .  Arch Gen Psychiatry . 2010;67(12):1256-1264. doi:10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2010.168

Goyal M, Singh S, Sibinga EM, et al. Meditation programs for psychological stress and well-being: A systematic review and meta-analysis .  JAMA Intern Med . 2014;174(3):357-368. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2013.13018

Kelly P, Williamson C, Niven AG, Hunter R, Mutrie N, Richards J. Walking on sunshine: Scoping review of the evidence for walking and mental health . Br J Sports Med. 2018;52(12):800-806. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2017-098827

Carek, PJ, Laibstain, SE, and Carek, SM. Exercise for the treatment of depression and anxiety . The International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine. 2011;41(1):15-28. doi:10.2190/PM.41.1.c

Armeli S, Sullivan TP, Tennen H. Drinking to cope motivation as a prospective predictor of negative affect . J Stud Alcohol Drugs . 2015;76(4):578-84. doi:10.15288/jsad.2015.76.578

Li F, Liu X, Zhang D. Fish consumption and risk of depression: A meta-analysis . Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health . 2016;70:299-304. doi:10.1136/jech-2015-206278

Arab, L, Guo, R, and Elashoff, D. Lower depression scores among walnut consumers in NHANES . Nutrients . 2019; 11(2): E275. doi:10.3390/nu11020275

Evrensel A, Ceylan ME. The gut-brain axis: The missing link in depression . Clinical Psychopharmacology and Neuroscience . 2015;13(3):239-244. doi:10.9758/cpn.2015.13.3.239

Oar EL, Johnco C, Ollendick TH. Cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety and depression in children and adolescents . Psychiatr Clin North Am . 2017;40(4):661-674. doi:10.1016/j.psc.2017.08.002

Wichmann S, Kirschbaum C, Böhme C, Petrowski K. Cortisol stress response in post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, and major depressive disorder patients . Psychoneuroendocrinology . 2017;83:135-141.doi:10.1016/j.psyneuen.2017.06.005

Klainin-Yobas P, Nuang Oo W, Ying P, Yew S, Lau Y. Effects of relaxation interventions on depression and anxiety among older adults: A systematic review . Aging Ment Health. 2015;19(12):1043-55. doi:10.1080/13607863.2014.997191

Wolf KL, Robbins AST. Metro nature, environmental health, and economic value . Environmental Health Perspectives . 2015;123(5):390-398. doi:10.1289/ehp.1408216

Nieuwenhuis M, Knight C, Postmes T, Haslam SA. The relative benefits of green versus lean office space: Three field experiments . Journal of Experimental Psychology: Applied . 2014;20(3):199-214. doi:10.1037/xap0000024

Lee MS, Lee J, Park BJ, Miyazaki Y. Interaction with indoor plants may reduce psychological and physiological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity in young adults: A randomized crossover study .  J Physiol Anthropol . 2015;34(1):21. doi:10.1186/s40101-015-0060-8

Dzhambov AM, Lercher P, Browning MHEM, et al. Does greenery experienced indoors and outdoors provide an escape and support mental health during the COVID-19 quarantine? .  Environ Res . 2021;196:110420. doi:10.1016/j.envres.2020.110420

Koulivand PH, Khaleghi Ghadiri M, Gorji A. Lavender and the nervous system .  Evid Based Complement Alternat Med . 2013;2013:681304. doi:10.1155/2013/681304

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Stewart J, Garrido S, Hense C, McFerran K. Music use for mood regulation: self-awareness and conscious listening choices in young people with tendencies to depression .  Front Psychol . 2019;10:1199. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01199

By Nancy Schimelpfening Nancy Schimelpfening, MS is the administrator for the non-profit depression support group Depression Sanctuary. Nancy has a lifetime of experience with depression, experiencing firsthand how devastating this illness can be.  

434 Depression Essay Titles & Research Topics: Argumentative, Controversial, and More

Depression is undeniably one of the most prevalent mental health conditions globally, affecting approximately 5% of adults worldwide. It often manifests as intense feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities. Many also experience physical symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, and appetite changes. Recognizing and addressing this mental disorder is extremely important to save lives and treat the condition.

In this article, we’ll discuss how to write an essay about depression and introduce depression essay topics and research titles for students that may be inspirational.

  • 🔝 Top Depression Essay Titles
  • ✅ Essay Prompts
  • 💡 Research Topics
  • 🔎 Essay Titles
  • 💭 Speech Topics
  • 📝 Essay Structure

🔗 References

🔝 top 12 research titles about depression.

  • How is depression treated?
  • Depression: Risk factors.
  • The symptoms of depression.
  • What types of depression exist?
  • Depression in young people.
  • Differences between anxiety and depression.
  • The parents’ role in depression therapy.
  • Drugs as the root cause of depression.
  • Dangerous consequences of untreated depression.
  • Effect of long-term depression.
  • Different stages of depression.
  • Treatment for depression.

The picture provides a list of topics for a research paper about depression.

✅ Prompts for Essay about Depression

Struggling to find inspiration for your essay? Look no further! We’ve put together some valuable essay prompts on depression just for you!

Prompt for Personal Essay about Depression

Sharing your own experience with depression in a paper can be a good idea. Others may feel more motivated to overcome their situation after reading your story. You can also share valuable advice by discussing things or methods that have personally helped you deal with the condition.

For example, in your essay about depression, you can:

  • Tell about the time you felt anxious, hopeless, or depressed;
  • Express your opinion on depression based on the experiences from your life;
  • Suggest a way of dealing with the initial symptoms of depression ;
  • Share your ideas on how to protect mental health at a young age.

How to Overcome Depression: Essay Prompt

Sadness is a common human emotion, but depression encompasses more than just sadness. As reported by the National Institute of Mental Health, around 21 million adults in the United States, roughly 8.4% of the total adult population , faced at least one significant episode of depression in 2020. When crafting your essay about overcoming depression, consider exploring the following aspects:

  • Depression in young people and adolescents;
  • The main causes of depression;
  • The symptoms of depression;
  • Ways to treat depression;
  • Help from a psychologist (cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy ).

Postpartum Depression: Essay Prompt

The birth of a child often evokes a spectrum of powerful emotions, spanning from exhilaration and happiness to apprehension and unease. It can also trigger the onset of depression. Following childbirth, many new mothers experience postpartum “baby blues,” marked by shifts in mood, bouts of tears, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. To shed light on the subject of postpartum depression, explore the following questions:

  • What factors may increase the risk of postpartum depression?
  • Is postpartum depression predictable?
  • How to prevent postpartum depression?
  • What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?
  • What kinds of postpartum depression treatments exist?

Prompt for Essay about Teenage Depression

Teenage depression is a mental health condition characterized by sadness and diminishing interest in daily activities. It can significantly impact a teenager’s thoughts, emotions, and behavior, often requiring long-term treatment and support.

By discussing the primary symptoms of teenage depression in your paper, you can raise awareness of the issue and encourage those in need to seek assistance. You can pay attention to the following aspects:

  • Emotional changes (feelings of sadness, anger, hopelessness, guilt, etc.);
  • Behavioral changes (loss of energy and appetite , less attention to personal hygiene, self-harm, etc.);
  • New addictions (drugs, alcohol, computer games, etc.).

💡 Research Topics about Depression

  • The role of genetics in depression development.
  • The effectiveness of different psychotherapeutic interventions for depression.
  • Anti-depression non-pharmacological and medication treatment.
  • The impact of childhood trauma on the onset of depression later in life.
  • Exploring the efficacy of antidepressant medication in different populations.
  • The impact of exercise on depression symptoms and treatment outcomes.
  • Mild depression: pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy.
  • The relationship between sleep disturbances and depression.
  • The role of gut microbiota in depression and potential implications for treatment.
  • Investigating the impact of social media on depression rates in adolescents.
  • Depression, dementia, and delirium in older people .
  • The efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy in preventing depression relapse.
  • The influence of hormonal changes on depression risk.
  • Assessing the effectiveness of self-help and digital interventions for depression.
  • Herbal and complementary therapies for depression.
  • The relationship between personality traits and vulnerability to depression.
  • Investigating the long-term consequences of untreated depression on physical health.
  • Exploring the link between chronic pain and depression.
  • Depression in the elderly male.
  • The impact of childhood experiences on depression outcomes in adulthood.
  • The use of ketamine and other novel treatments for depression.
  • The effect of stigma on depression diagnosis and treatment.
  • The conducted family assessment: cases of depression.
  • The role of social support in depression recovery.
  • The effectiveness of online support groups for individuals with depression.
  • Depression and cognitive decline in adults.
  • Depression: PICOT question component exploration .
  • Exploring the impact of nutrition and dietary patterns on depression symptoms.
  • Investigating the efficacy of art-based therapies in depression treatment.
  • The role of neuroplasticity in the development and treatment of depression.
  • Depression among HIV-positive women.
  • The influence of gender on depression prevalence and symptomatology.
  • Investigating the impact of workplace factors on depression rates and outcomes.
  • The efficacy of family-based interventions in reducing depression symptoms in teenagers.
  • Frontline nurses’ burnout, anxiety, depression, and fear statuses.
  • The role of early-life stress and adversity in depression vulnerability.
  • The impact of various environmental factors on depression rates.
  • Exploring the link between depression and cardiovascular health.
  • Depression detection in adults in nursing practice.
  • Virtual reality as a therapeutic tool for depression treatment.
  • Investigating the impact of childhood bullying on depression outcomes.
  • The benefits of animal-assisted interventions in depression management.
  • Depression and physical exercise .
  • The relationship between depression and suicidal behavior .
  • The influence of cultural factors on depression symptom expression.
  • Investigating the role of epigenetics in depression susceptibility.
  • Depression associated with cognitive dysfunction.
  • Exploring the impact of adverse trauma on the course of depression.
  • The efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy in treating depression.
  • The relationship between depression and substance use disorders .
  • Depression and anxiety among college students .
  • Investigating the effectiveness of group therapy for depression.
  • Depression and chronic medical conditions.

Psychology Research Topics on Depression

  • The influence of early attachment experiences on the development of depression.
  • The impact of negative cognitive biases on depression symptomatology.
  • Depression treatment plan for a queer patient .
  • Examining the relationship between perfectionism and depression.
  • The role of self-esteem in depression vulnerability and recovery.
  • Exploring the link between maladaptive thinking styles (e.g., rumination, catastrophizing) and depression.
  • Investigating the impact of social support on depression outcomes and resilience.
  • Identifying depression in young adults at an early stage.
  • The influence of parenting styles on the risk of depression in children and adolescents.
  • The role of self-criticism and self-compassion in depression treatment.
  • Exploring the relationship between identity development and depression in emerging adulthood.
  • The role of learned helplessness in understanding depression and its treatment.
  • Depression in the elderly.
  • Examining the connection between self-efficacy beliefs and depression symptoms.
  • The influence of social comparison processes on depression and body image dissatisfaction.
  • Exploring the impact of trauma-related disorders on depression.
  • The role of resilience factors in buffering against the development of depression.
  • Investigating the relationship between personality traits and depression.
  • Depression and workplace violence .
  • The impact of cultural factors on depression prevalence and symptom presentation.
  • Investigating the effects of chronic stress on depression risk.
  • The role of coping strategies in depression management and recovery.
  • The correlation between discrimination/prejudice and depression/anxiety .
  • Exploring the influence of gender norms and societal expectations on depression rates.
  • The impact of adverse workplace conditions on employee depression.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of narrative therapy in treating depression.
  • Cognitive behavior and depression in adolescents .
  • Childhood emotional neglect and adult depression.
  • The influence of perceived social support on treatment outcomes in depression.
  • The effects of childhood bullying on the development of depression.
  • The impact of intergenerational transmission of depression within families.
  • Depression in children: symptoms and treatments .
  • Investigating the link between body dissatisfaction and depression in adolescence.
  • The influence of adverse life events and chronic stressors on depression risk.
  • The effects of peer victimization on the development of depression in adolescence.
  • Counselling clients with depression and addiction.
  • The role of experiential avoidance in depression and its treatment.
  • The impact of social media use and online interactions on depression rates.
  • Depression management in adolescent.
  • Exploring the relationship between emotional intelligence and depression symptomatology.
  • Investigating the influence of cultural values and norms on depression stigma and help-seeking behavior.
  • The effects of childhood maltreatment on neurobiological markers of depression.
  • Psychological and emotional conditions of suicide and depression .
  • Exploring the relationship between body dissatisfaction and depression.
  • The influence of self-worth contingencies on depression vulnerability and treatment response.
  • The impact of social isolation and loneliness on depression rates.
  • Psychology of depression among college students .
  • The effects of perfectionistic self-presentation on depression in college students.
  • The role of mindfulness skills in depression prevention and relapse prevention.
  • Investigating the influence of adverse neighborhood conditions on depression risk.
  • Personality psychology and depression.
  • The impact of attachment insecurity on depression symptomatology.

Postpartum Depression Research Topics

  • Identifying risk factors for postpartum depression.
  • Exploring the role of hormonal changes in postpartum depression.
  • “Baby blues” or postpartum depression and evidence-based care .
  • The impact of social support on postpartum depression.
  • The effectiveness of screening tools for early detection of postpartum depression.
  • The relationship between postpartum depression and maternal-infant bonding .
  • Postpartum depression educational program results.
  • Identifying effective interventions for preventing and treating postpartum depression.
  • Examining the impact of cultural factors on postpartum depression rates.
  • Investigating the role of sleep disturbances in postpartum depression.
  • Depression and postpartum depression relationship .
  • Exploring the impact of a traumatic birth experience on postpartum depression.
  • Assessing the impact of breastfeeding difficulties on postpartum depression.
  • Understanding the role of genetic factors in postpartum depression.
  • Postpartum depression: consequences.
  • Investigating the impact of previous psychiatric history on postpartum depression risk.
  • The potential benefits of exercise on postpartum depression symptoms.
  • The efficacy of psychotherapeutic interventions for postpartum depression.
  • Postpartum depression in the twenty-first century.
  • The influence of partner support on postpartum depression outcomes.
  • Examining the relationship between postpartum depression and maternal self-esteem.
  • The impact of postpartum depression on infant development and well-being.
  • Maternal mood symptoms in pregnancy and postpartum depression.
  • The effectiveness of group therapy for postpartum depression management.
  • Identifying the role of inflammation and immune dysregulation in postpartum depression.
  • Investigating the impact of childcare stress on postpartum depression.
  • Postpartum depression among low-income US mothers .
  • The role of postnatal anxiety symptoms in postpartum depression.
  • The impact of postpartum depression on the marital relationship.
  • The influence of postpartum depression on parenting practices and parental stress.
  • Postpartum depression: symptoms, role of cultural factors, and ways to support.
  • Investigating the efficacy of pharmacological treatments for postpartum depression.
  • The impact of postpartum depression on breastfeeding initiation and continuation.
  • The relationship between postpartum depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
  • Postpartum depression and its identification.
  • The impact of postpartum depression on cognitive functioning and decision-making.
  • Investigating the influence of cultural norms and expectations on postpartum depression rates.
  • The impact of maternal guilt and shame on postpartum depression symptoms.
  • Beck’s postpartum depression theory: purpose, concepts, and significance .
  • Understanding the role of attachment styles in postpartum depression vulnerability.
  • Investigating the effectiveness of online support groups for women with postpartum depression.
  • The impact of socioeconomic factors on postpartum depression prevalence.
  • Perinatal depression: research study and design.
  • The efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions for postpartum depression.
  • Investigating the influence of birth spacing on postpartum depression risk.
  • The role of trauma history in postpartum depression development.
  • The link between the birth experience and postnatal depression .
  • How does postpartum depression affect the mother-infant interaction and bonding ?
  • The effectiveness of home visiting programs in preventing and managing postpartum depression.
  • Assessing the influence of work-related stress on postpartum depression.
  • The relationship between postpartum depression and pregnancy-related complications.
  • The role of personality traits in postpartum depression vulnerability.

🔎 Depression Essay Titles

Depression essay topics: cause & effect.

  • The effects of childhood trauma on the development of depression in adults.
  • The impact of social media usage on the prevalence of depression in adolescents.
  • “Predictors of Postpartum Depression” by Katon et al.
  • The effects of environmental factors on depression rates.
  • The relationship between academic pressure and depression among college students.
  • The relationship between financial stress and depression.
  • The best solution to predict depression because of bullying .
  • How does long-term unemployment affect mental health ?
  • The effects of unemployment on mental health, particularly the risk of depression.
  • The impact of genetics and family history of depression on an individual’s likelihood of developing depression.
  • The relationship between depression and substance abuse.
  • Child abuse and depression.
  • The role of gender in the manifestation and treatment of depression.
  • The effects of chronic stress on the development of depression.
  • The link between substance abuse and depression.
  • Depression among students at Elon University .
  • The influence of early attachment styles on an individual’s vulnerability to depression.
  • The effects of sleep disturbances on the severity of depression.
  • Chronic illness and the risk of developing depression.
  • Depression: symptoms and treatment.
  • Adverse childhood experiences and the likelihood of experiencing depression in adulthood.
  • The relationship between chronic illness and depression.
  • The role of negative thinking patterns in the development of depression.
  • Effects of depression among adolescents .
  • The effects of poor body image and low self-esteem on the prevalence of depression.
  • The influence of social support systems on preventing symptoms of depression.
  • The effects of child neglect on adult depression rates.
  • Depression caused by hormonal imbalance .
  • The link between perfectionism and the risk of developing depression.
  • The effects of a lack of sleep on depression symptoms.
  • The effects of childhood abuse and neglect on the risk of depression.
  • Social aspects of depression and anxiety .
  • The impact of bullying on the likelihood of experiencing depression.
  • The role of serotonin and neurotransmitter imbalances in the development of depression.
  • The impact of a poor diet on depression rates.
  • Depression and anxiety run in the family .
  • The effects of childhood poverty and socioeconomic status on depression rates in adults.
  • The impact of divorce on depression rates.
  • The relationship between traumatic life events and the risk of developing depression.
  • The influence of personality traits on susceptibility to depression.
  • The impact of workplace stress on depression rates.
  • Depression in older adults: causes and treatment.
  • The impact of parental depression on children’s mental health outcomes.
  • The effects of social isolation on the prevalence and severity of depression.
  • The role of cultural factors in the manifestation and treatment of depression.
  • The relationship between childhood bullying victimization and future depressive symptoms.
  • The impact of early intervention and prevention programs on reducing the risk of postpartum depression.
  • Treating mood disorders and depression .
  • How do hormonal changes during pregnancy contribute to the development of depression?
  • The effects of sleep deprivation on the onset and severity of postpartum depression.
  • The impact of social media on depression rates among teenagers.
  • The role of genetics in the development of depression.
  • The impact of bullying on adolescent depression rates.
  • Mental illness, depression, and wellness issues .
  • The effects of a sedentary lifestyle on depression symptoms.
  • The correlation between academic pressure and depression in students.
  • The relationship between perfectionism and depression.
  • The correlation between trauma and depression in military veterans.
  • Anxiety and depression during childhood and adolescence .
  • The impact of racial discrimination on depression rates among minorities.
  • The relationship between chronic pain and depression.
  • The impact of social comparison on depression rates among young adults.
  • The effects of childhood abuse on adult depression rates.

Depression Argumentative Essay Topics

  • The role of social media in contributing to depression among teenagers.
  • The effectiveness of antidepressant medication: an ongoing debate.
  • Depression treatment: therapy or medications?
  • Should depression screening be mandatory in schools and colleges?
  • Is there a genetic predisposition to depression?
  • The stigma surrounding depression: addressing misconceptions and promoting understanding.
  • Implementation of depression screening in primary care .
  • Is psychotherapy more effective than medication in treating depression?
  • Is teenage depression overdiagnosed or underdiagnosed: a critical analysis.
  • The connection between depression and substance abuse: untangling the relationship.
  • Humanistic therapy of depression .
  • Should ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) be a treatment option for severe depression?
  • Where is depression more prevalent: in urban or rural communities? Analyzing the disparities.
  • Is depression a result of chemical imbalance in the brain? Debunking the myth.
  • Depression: a serious mental and behavioral problem.
  • Should depression medication be prescribed for children and adolescents?
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in managing depression.
  • Should depression in the elderly be considered a normal part of aging?
  • Is depression hereditary? Investigating the role of genetics in depression risk.
  • Different types of training in managing the symptoms of depression .
  • The effectiveness of online therapy platforms in treating depression.
  • Should psychedelic therapy be explored as an alternative treatment for depression?
  • The connection between depression and cardiovascular health: Is there a link?
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in preventing depression relapse.
  • Depression as a bad a clinical condition.
  • Should mind-body interventions (e.g., yoga, meditation) be integrated into depression treatment?
  • Should emotional support animals be prescribed for individuals with depression?
  • The effectiveness of peer support groups in decreasing depression symptoms.
  • The use of antidepressants: are they overprescribed or necessary for treating depression?
  • Adult depression and anxiety as a complex problem .
  • The effectiveness of therapy versus medication in treating depression.
  • The stigma surrounding depression and mental illness: how can we reduce it?
  • The debate over the legalization of psychedelic drugs for treating depression.
  • The relationship between creativity and depression: does one cause the other?
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy for generalized anxiety disorder and depression .
  • The role of childhood trauma in shaping adult depression: Is it always a causal factor?
  • The debate over the medicalization of sadness and grief as forms of depression.
  • Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture or meditation, are effective in treating depression.
  • Depression as a widespread mental condition .

Controversial Topics about Depression

  • The existence of “chemical imbalance” in depression: fact or fiction?
  • The over-reliance on medication in treating depression: are alternatives neglected?
  • Is depression overdiagnosed and overmedicated in Western society?
  • Measurement of an individual’s level of depression .
  • The role of Big Pharma in shaping the narrative and treatment of depression.
  • Should antidepressant advertisements be banned?
  • The inadequacy of current diagnostic criteria for depression: rethinking the DSM-5.
  • Is depression a biological illness or a product of societal factors?
  • Literature review on depression .
  • The overemphasis on biological factors in depression treatment: ignoring environmental factors.
  • Is depression a normal reaction to an abnormal society?
  • The influence of cultural norms on the perception and treatment of depression.
  • Should children and adolescents be routinely prescribed antidepressants?
  • The role of family in depression treatment .
  • The connection between depression and creative genius: does depression enhance artistic abilities?
  • The ethics of using placebo treatment for depression studies.
  • The impact of social and economic inequalities on depression rates.
  • Is depression primarily a mental health issue or a social justice issue?
  • Depression disassembling and treating.
  • Should depression screening be mandatory in the workplace?
  • The influence of gender bias in the diagnosis and treatment of depression.
  • The controversial role of religion and spirituality in managing depression.
  • Is depression a result of individual weakness or societal factors?
  • Abnormal psychology: anxiety and depression case .
  • The link between depression and obesity: examining the bidirectional relationship.
  • The connection between depression and academic performance : causation or correlation?
  • Should depression medication be available over the counter?
  • The impact of internet and social media use on depression rates: harmful or beneficial?
  • Interacting in the workplace: depression.
  • Is depression a modern epidemic or simply better diagnosed and identified?
  • The ethical considerations of using animals in depression research.
  • The effectiveness of psychedelic therapies for treatment-resistant depression.
  • Is depression a disability? The debate on workplace accommodations.
  • Polysubstance abuse among adolescent males with depression .
  • The link between depression and intimate partner violence : exploring the relationship.
  • The controversy surrounding “happy” pills and the pursuit of happiness.
  • Is depression a choice? Examining the role of personal responsibility.

Good Titles for Depression Essays

  • The poetic depictions of depression: exploring its representation in literature.
  • The melancholic symphony: the influence of depression on classical music.
  • Moderate depression symptoms and treatment.
  • Depression in modern music: analyzing its themes and expressions.
  • Cultural perspectives on depression: a comparative analysis of attitudes in different countries.
  • Contrasting cultural views on depression in Eastern and Western societies.
  • Diagnosing depression in the older population.
  • The influence of social media on attitudes and perceptions of depression in global contexts.
  • Countries with progressive approaches to mental health awareness.
  • From taboo to acceptance: the evolution of attitudes towards depression.
  • Depression screening tool in acute settings.
  • The Bell Jar : analyzing Sylvia Plath’s iconic tale of depression .
  • The art of despair: examining Frida Kahlo’s self-portraits as a window into depression.
  • The Catcher in the Rye : Holden Caulfield’s battle with adolescent depression.
  • Music as therapy: how jazz artists turned depression into art.
  • Depression screening tool for a primary care center.
  • The Nordic paradox: high depression rates in Scandinavian countries despite high-quality healthcare.
  • The Stoic East: how Eastern philosophies approach and manage depression.
  • From solitude to solidarity: collective approaches to depression in collectivist cultures.
  • The portrayal of depression in popular culture: a critical analysis of movies and TV shows.
  • The depression screening training in primary care.
  • The impact of social media influencers on depression rates among young adults.
  • The role of music in coping with depression: can specific genres or songs help alleviate depressive symptoms?
  • The representation of depression in literature: a comparative analysis of classic and contemporary works.
  • The use of art as a form of self-expression and therapy for individuals with depression.
  • Depression management guidelines implementation.
  • The role of religion in coping with depression: Christian and Buddhist practices.
  • The representation of depression in the video game Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice .
  • The role of nature in coping with depression: can spending time outdoors help alleviate depressive symptoms?
  • The effectiveness of dance/movement therapy in treating depression among older adults.
  • The National Institute for Health: depression management.
  • The portrayal of depression in stand-up comedy: a study of comedians like Maria Bamford and Chris Gethard.
  • The role of spirituality in coping with depression: Islamic and Hindu practices .
  • The portrayal of depression in animated movies : an analysis of Inside Out and The Lion King .
  • The representation of depression by fashion designers like Alexander McQueen and Rick Owens.
  • Depression screening in primary care .
  • The portrayal of depression in documentaries: an analysis of films like The Bridge and Happy Valley .
  • The effectiveness of wilderness therapy in treating depression among adolescents.
  • The connection between creativity and depression: how art can help heal.
  • The role of Buddhist and Taoist practices in coping with depression.
  • Mild depression treatment research funding sources.
  • The portrayal of depression in podcasts: an analysis of the show The Hilarious World of Depression .
  • The effectiveness of drama therapy in treating depression among children and adolescents.
  • The representation of depression in the works of Vincent van Gogh and Edvard Munch.
  • Depression in young people: articles review.
  • The impact of social media on political polarization and its relationship with depression.
  • The role of humor in coping with depression: a study of comedians like Ellen DeGeneres.
  • The portrayal of depression in webcomics: an analysis of the comics Hyperbole and a Half .
  • The effect of social media on mental health stigma and its relationship with depression.
  • Depression and the impact of human services workers.
  • The masked faces: hiding depression in highly individualistic societies.

💭 Depression Speech Topics

Informative speech topics about depression.

  • Different types of depression and their symptoms.
  • The causes of depression: biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
  • How depression and physical issues are connected.
  • The prevalence of depression in different age groups and demographics.
  • The link between depression and anxiety disorders.
  • Physical health: The effects of untreated depression.
  • The role of genetics in predisposing individuals to depression.
  • What you need to know about depression .
  • How necessary is early intervention in treating depression?
  • The effectiveness of medication in treating depression.
  • The role of exercise in managing depressive symptoms.
  • Depression in later life: overview.
  • The relationship between substance abuse and depression.
  • The impact of trauma on depression rates and treatment.
  • The effectiveness of mindfulness meditation in managing depressive symptoms.
  • Enzymes conversion and metabolites in major depression.
  • The benefits and drawbacks of electroconvulsive therapy for severe depression.
  • The effect of gender and cultural norms on depression rates and treatment.
  • The effectiveness of alternative therapies for depression, such as acupuncture and herbal remedies.
  • The importance of self-care in managing depression.
  • Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and peritraumatic dissociation.
  • The role of support systems in managing depression.
  • The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating depression.
  • The benefits and drawbacks of online therapy for depression.
  • The role of spirituality in managing depression.
  • Depression among minority groups.
  • The benefits and drawbacks of residential treatment for severe depression.
  • What is the relationship between childhood trauma and adult depression?
  • How effective is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression?
  • The benefits and drawbacks of art therapy for depression.
  • Mood disorder: depression and bipolar .
  • The impact of social media on depression rates.
  • The effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in treating depression.
  • Depression in older people.
  • The impact of seasonal changes on depression rates and treatment options.
  • The impact of depression on daily life and relationships, and strategies for coping with the condition.
  • The stigma around depression and the importance of seeking help.

Persuasive Speech Topics about Depression

  • How important is it to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression ?
  • How do you support a loved one who is struggling with depression?
  • The importance of mental health education in schools to prevent and manage depression.
  • Social media: the rise of depression and anxiety .
  • Is there a need to increase funding for mental health research to develop better treatments for depression?
  • Addressing depression in minority communities: overcoming barriers and disparities.
  • The benefits of including alternative therapies, such as yoga and meditation, in depression treatment plans.
  • Challenging media portrayals of depression: promoting accurate representations.
  • Two sides of depression disease.
  • How social media affects mental health: the need for responsible use to prevent depression.
  • The importance of early intervention: addressing depression in schools and colleges.
  • The benefits of seeking professional help for depression.
  • There is a need for better access to mental health care, including therapy and medication, for those suffering from depression.
  • Depression in adolescents and suitable interventions .
  • How do you manage depression while in college or university?
  • The role of family and friends in supporting loved ones with depression and encouraging them to seek help.
  • The benefits of mindfulness and meditation for depression.
  • The link between sleep and depression, and how to improve sleep habits.
  • How do you manage depression while working a high-stress job?
  • Approaches to treating depression.
  • How do you manage depression during pregnancy and postpartum?
  • The importance of prioritizing employee mental health and providing resources for managing depression in the workplace.
  • How should you manage depression while caring for a loved one with a chronic illness?
  • How to manage depression while dealing with infertility or pregnancy loss.
  • Andrew Solomon: why we can’t talk about depression .
  • Destigmatizing depression: promoting mental health awareness and understanding.
  • Raising funds for depression research: investing in mental health advances.
  • The power of peer support: establishing peer-led programs for depression.
  • Accessible mental health services: ensuring treatment for all affected by depression.
  • Evidence-based screening for depression in acute care .
  • The benefits of journaling for mental health: putting your thoughts on paper to heal.
  • The power of positivity: changing your mindset to fight depression .
  • The healing power of gratitude in fighting depression.
  • The connection between diet and depression: eating well can improve your mood.
  • Teen depression and suicide in Soto’s The Afterlife .
  • The benefits of therapy for depression: finding professional help to heal.
  • The importance of setting realistic expectations when living with depression.

📝 How to Write about Depression: Essay Structure

We’ve prepared some tips and examples to help you structure your essay and communicate your ideas.

Essay about Depression: Introduction

An introduction is the first paragraph of an essay. It plays a crucial role in engaging the reader, offering the context, and presenting the central theme.

A good introduction typically consists of 3 components:

  • Hook. The hook captures readers’ attention and encourages them to continue reading.
  • Background information. Background information provides context for the essay.
  • Thesis statement. A thesis statement expresses the essay’s primary idea or central argument.

Hook : Depression is a widespread mental illness affecting millions worldwide.

Background information : Depression affects your emotions, thoughts, and behavior. If you suffer from depression, engaging in everyday tasks might become arduous, and life may appear devoid of purpose or joy.

Depression Essay Thesis Statement

A good thesis statement serves as an essay’s road map. It expresses the author’s point of view on the issue in 1 or 2 sentences and presents the main argument.

Thesis statement : The stigma surrounding depression and other mental health conditions can discourage people from seeking help, only worsening their symptoms.

Essays on Depression: Body Paragraphs

The main body of the essay is where you present your arguments. An essay paragraph includes the following:

  • a topic sentence,
  • evidence to back up your claim,
  • explanation of why the point is essential to the argument;
  • a link to the next paragraph.

Topic sentence : Depression is a complex disorder that requires a personalized treatment approach, comprising both medication and therapy.

Evidence : Medication can be prescribed by a healthcare provider or a psychiatrist to relieve the symptoms. Additionally, practical strategies for managing depression encompass building a support system, setting achievable goals, and practicing self-care.

Depression Essay: Conclusion

The conclusion is the last part of your essay. It helps you leave a favorable impression on the reader.

The perfect conclusion includes 3 elements:

  • Rephrased thesis statement.
  • Summary of the main points.
  • Final opinion on the topic.

Rephrased thesis: In conclusion, overcoming depression is challenging because it involves a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors that affect an individual’s mental well-being.

Summary: Untreated depression heightens the risk of engaging in harmful behaviors such as substance abuse and can also result in negative thought patterns, diminished self-esteem, and distorted perceptions of reality.

We hope you’ve found our article helpful and learned some new information. If so, feel free to share it with your friends. You can also try our free online topic generator !

  • Pain, anxiety, and depression – Harvard Health | Harvard Health Publishing
  • Depression-related increases and decreases in appetite reveal dissociable patterns of aberrant activity in reward and interoceptive neurocircuitry – PMC | National Library of Medicine
  • How to Get Treatment for Postpartum Depression – The New York Times
  • What Is Background Information and What Purpose Does It Serve? | Indeed.com
  • Thesis | Harvard College Writing Center
  • Topic Sentences: How Do You Write a Great One? | Grammarly Blog

725 Research Proposal Topics & Title Ideas in Education, Psychology, Business, & More

414 proposal essay topics for projects, research, & proposal arguments.

Parent’s Guide to Teen Depression

Are you feeling suicidal, coping with depression.

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What is teen depression?

Signs and symptoms of teen depression, coping with suicidal thoughts, why am i depressed, overcoming teen depression tip 1: talk to an adult you trust, tip 2: try not to isolate yourself—it makes depression worse, tip 3: adopt healthy habits, tip 4: manage stress and anxiety, how to help a depressed teen friend, dealing with teen depression.

No matter how despondent life seems right now, there are many things you can do to start feeling better today. Use these tools to help yourself or a friend.

overcome depression essay

The teenage years can be really tough and it’s perfectly normal to feel sad or irritable every now and then. But if these feelings don’t go away or become so intense that you feel overwhelmingly hopeless and helpless, you may be suffering from depression.

Teen depression is much more than feeling temporarily sad or down in the dumps. It’s a serious and debilitating mood disorder that can change the way you think, feel, and function in your daily life, causing problems at home, school, and in your social life. When you’re depressed, you may feel hopeless and isolated and it can seem like no one understands. But depression is far more common in teens than you may think. The increased academic pressures, social challenges, and hormonal changes of the teenage years mean that about one in five of us suffer with depression in our teens. You’re not alone and your depression is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw.

Even though it can feel like the black cloud of depression will never lift, there are plenty of things you can do to help yourself deal with symptoms, regain your balance and feel more positive, energetic, and hopeful again.

If you’re a parent or guardian worried about your child…

While it isn’t always easy to differentiate from normal teenage growing pains, teen depression is a serious health problem that goes beyond moodiness. As a parent, your love, guidance, and support can go a long way toward helping your teen overcome depression and get their life back on track. Read Parent’s Guide to Teen Depression .

It can be hard to put into words exactly how depression feels—and we don’t all experience it the same way. For some teens, depression is characterized by feelings of bleakness and despair. For others, it’s a persistent anger or agitation, or simply an overwhelming sense of “emptiness.” However depression affects you, though, there are some common symptoms that you may experience:

  • You constantly feel irritable, sad, or angry.
  • Nothing seems fun anymore—even the activities you used to love—and you just don’t see the point of forcing yourself to do them.
  • You feel bad about yourself—worthless, guilty, or just “wrong” in some way.
  • You sleep too much or not enough.
  • You’ve turned to alcohol or drugs to try to change the way you feel .
  • You have frequent, unexplained headaches or other physical pains or problems.
  • Anything and everything makes you cry.
  • You’re extremely sensitive to criticism.
  • You’ve gained or lost weight without consciously trying to.
  • You’re having trouble concentrating, thinking straight, or remembering things. Your grades may be plummeting because of it.
  • You feel helpless and hopeless.
  • You’re thinking about death or suicide. (If so, talk to someone right away!)

If your negative feelings caused by depression become so overwhelming that you can’t see any solution besides harming yourself or others, you need to get help right away . Asking for help when you’re in the midst of such strong emotions can be really difficult, but it’s vital you reach out to someone you trust—a friend, family member, or teacher, for example. If you don’t feel that you have anyone to talk to, or think that talking to a stranger might be easier, call a suicide helpline . You’ll be able to speak in confidence to someone who understands what you’re going through and can help you deal with your feelings.

Whatever your situation, it takes real courage to face death and step back from the brink. You can use that courage to help you keep going and overcome depression.

There is ALWAYS another solution, even if you can’t see it right now. Many people who have survived a suicide attempt say that they did it because they mistakenly felt there was no other solution to a problem they were experiencing. At the time, they couldn’t see another way out, but in truth, they didn’t really want to die. Remember that no matter how badly you feel, these emotions will pass.

Having thoughts of hurting yourself or others does not make you a bad person. Depression can make you think and feel things that are out of character. No one should judge you or condemn you for these feelings if you are brave enough to talk about them.

If your feelings are uncontrollable, tell yourself to wait 24 hours before you take any action. This can give you time to really think things through and give yourself some distance from the strong emotions that are plaguing you. During this 24-hour period, try to talk to someone—anyone—as long as they are not another suicidal or depressed person. Call a hotline or talk to a friend. What do you have to lose?

If you’re afraid you can’t control yourself, make sure you are never alone. Even if you can’t verbalize your feelings, just stay in public places, hang out with friends or family members, or go to a movie—anything to keep from being by yourself and in danger.

If you're thinking about suicide…

Please read Are You Feeling Suicidal? or call a helpline:

  • In the U.S.: 988
  • UK: 116 123
  • Australia: 13 11 14
  • To find a helpline in other countries, visit IASP or Suicide.org .

Remember, suicide is a “permanent solution to a temporary problem.” Please take that first step and reach out now.

Despite what you may have been told, depression is not simply caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain that can be cured with medication. Rather, depression is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors . Since the teenage years can be a time of great turmoil and uncertainty, you’re likely facing a host of pressures that could contribute to your depression symptoms. These can range from hormonal changes to problems at home or school or questions about who you are and where you fit in.

As a teen, you’re more likely to suffer from depression if you have a family history of depression or have experienced early childhood trauma, such as the loss of a parent or physical or emotional abuse .

Risk factors for teen depression

Risk factors that can trigger or exacerbate depression in teens include:

  • Serious illness, chronic pain, or physical disability .
  • Having other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, an eating disorder , learning disorder , or ADHD.
  • Alcohol or drug abuse.
  • Academic or family problems.
  • Trauma from violence or abuse.
  • Recent stressful life experiences, such as parental divorce or the death of a loved one.
  • Coping with your sexual identity in an unsupportive environment.
  • Loneliness and lack of social support.
  • Spending too much time on social media .

If you’re being bullied…

The stress of bullying—whether it’s online, at school, or elsewhere—is very difficult to live with. It can make you feel helpless, hopeless, and ashamed: the perfect recipe for depression.

If you’re being bullied, know that it’s not your fault. No matter what a bully says or does, you should not be ashamed of who you are or what you feel. Bullying is abuse and you don’t have to put up with it . You deserve to feel safe, but you’ll most likely need help. Find support from friends who don’t bully and turn to an adult you trust—whether it’s a parent, teacher, counselor, pastor, coach, or the parent of a friend.

Whatever the causes of your depression, the following tips can help you overcome your symptoms, change how you feel, and regain your sense of hope and enthusiasm.

Depression is not your fault, and you didn’t do anything to cause it. However, you do have some control over feeling better. The first step is to ask for help.

Speak to a Licensed Therapist

BetterHelp is an online therapy service that matches you to licensed, accredited therapists who can help with depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Take the assessment and get matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours.

Talking to someone about depression

It may seem like there’s no way your parents will be able to help, especially if they are always nagging you or getting angry about your behavior. The truth is, parents hate to see their kids hurting. They may feel frustrated because they don’t understand what is going on with you or know how to help.

  • If your parents are abusive in any way, or if they have problems of their own that makes it difficult for them to take care of you, find another adult you trust (such as a relative, teacher, counselor, or coach). This person can either help you approach your parents, or direct you toward the support you need.
  • If you truly don’t have anyone you can talk to, there are many hotlines, services, and support groups that can help.
  • No matter what, talk to someone, especially if you are having any thoughts of harming yourself or others. Asking for help is the bravest thing you can do, and the first step on your way to feeling better.

The importance of accepting and sharing your feelings

It can be hard to open up about how you’re feeling—especially when you’re feeling depressed, ashamed, or worthless. It’s important to remember that many people struggle with feelings like these at one time or another—it doesn’t mean that you’re weak, fundamentally flawed, or no good. Accepting your feelings and opening up about them with someone you trust will help you feel less alone.

Even though it may not feel like it at the moment, people do love and care about you. If you can muster the courage to talk about your depression, it can—and will—be resolved. Some people think that talking about sad feelings will make them worse, but the opposite is almost always true. It is very helpful to share your worries with someone who will listen and care about what you say. They don’t need to be able to “fix” you; they just need to be good listeners.

Depression causes many of us to withdraw into our shells. You may not feel like seeing anybody or doing anything and some days just getting out of bed in the morning can be difficult. But isolating yourself only makes depression worse. So even if it’s the last thing you want to do, try to force yourself to stay social. As you get out into the world and connect with others, you’ll likely find yourself starting to feel better.

Spend time face-to-face with friends who make you feel good —especially those who are active, upbeat, and understanding. Avoid hanging out with those who abuse drugs or alcohol, get you into trouble, or make you feel judged or insecure.

Get involved in activities you enjoy (or used to). Getting involved in extracurricular activities seem like a daunting prospect when you’re depressed, but you’ll feel better if you do. Choose something you’ve enjoyed in the past, whether it be a sport, an art, dance or music class, or an after-school club. You might not feel motivated at first, but as you start to participate again, your mood and enthusiasm will begin to lift.

Volunteer. Doing things for others is a powerful antidepressant and happiness booster. Volunteering for a cause you believe in can help you feel reconnected to others and the world, and give you the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a difference.

Cut back on your social media use. While it may seem that losing yourself online will temporarily ease depression symptoms, it can actually make you feel even worse. Comparing yourself unfavorably with your peers on social media , for example, only promotes feelings of depression and isolation. Remember: people always exaggerate the positive aspects of their lives online, brushing over the doubts and disappointments that we all experience. And even if you’re just interacting with friends online, it’s no replacement for in-person contact. Eye-to-eye contact, a hug, or even a simple touch on the arm from a friend can make all the difference to how you’re feeling.

Making healthy lifestyle choices can do wonders for your mood. Things like eating right, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep have been shown to make a huge difference when it comes to depression.

Get moving! Ever heard of a “runner’s high”? You actually get a rush of endorphins from exercising, which makes you feel instantly happier. Physical activity can be as effective as medications or therapy for depression, so get involved in sports, ride your bike, or take a dance class. Any activity helps! If you’re not feeling up to much, start with a short daily walk, and build from there.

Be smart about what you eat. An unhealthy diet can make you feel sluggish and tired, which worsens depression symptoms. Junk food , refined carbs, and sugary snacks are the worst culprits! They may give you a quick boost, but they’ll leave you feeling worse in the long run. Make sure you’re feeding your mind with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Talk to your parents, doctor, or school nurse about how to ensure your diet is adequately nutritious.

Avoid alcohol and drugs. You may be tempted to drink or use drugs in an effort to escape from your feelings and get a “mood boost,” even if just for a short time. However, as well as causing depression in the first place, substance use will only make depression worse in the long run. Alcohol and drug use can also increase suicidal feelings. If you’re addicted to alcohol or drugs , seek help. You will need special treatment for your substance problem on top of whatever treatment you’re receiving for your depression.

Aim for eight hours of sleep each night.  Feeling depressed as a teenager typically disrupts your sleep. Whether you’re sleeping too little or too much, your mood will suffer. But you can get on a better sleep schedule  by adopting healthy sleep habits.

For many teens, stress and anxiety can go hand-in-hand with depression. Unrelenting stress, doubts, or fears can sap your emotional energy, affect your physical health, send your anxiety levels soaring, and trigger or exacerbate depression.

If you’re suffering from an anxiety disorder , it can manifest itself in a variety of ways. Perhaps you endure intense anxiety attacks that strike without warning, get panicky at the thought of speaking in class, experience uncontrollable, intrusive thoughts, or live in a constant state of worry. Since anxiety makes depression worse (and vice versa), it’s important to get help for both conditions.

Tips for managing stress

Managing the stress in your life starts with identifying the sources of that stress:

  • If exams or classes seem overwhelming, for example, talk to a teacher or school counselor, or find ways of improving how you manage your time.
  • If you have a health concern you feel you can’t talk to your parents about—such as a pregnancy scare or drug problem —seek medical attention at a clinic or see a doctor. A health professional can guide you towards appropriate treatment (and help you approach your parents if that’s necessary).
  • If you’re struggling to fit in or dealing with relationship, friendship, or family difficulties, talk your problems over with your school counselor or a professional therapist. Exercise, meditation , muscle relaxation, and breathing exercises are other good ways to cope with stress.
  • If your own negative thoughts and chronic worrying are contributing to your everyday stress levels, you can take steps to break the habit and regain control of your worrying mind.

If you’re a teenager with a friend who seems down or troubled, you may suspect depression. But how do you know it’s not just a passing phase or a bad mood? Look for common warning signs of teen depression:

  • Your friend doesn’t want to do the things you guys used to love to do.
  • Your friend starts using alcohol or drugs or hanging with a bad crowd.
  • Your friend stops going to classes and after-school activities.
  • Your friend talks about being bad, ugly, stupid, or worthless.
  • Your friend starts talking about death or suicide.

Teens typically rely on their friends more than their parents or other adults, so you may find yourself in the position of being the first—or only—person that your depressed friend confides in. While this might seem like a huge responsibility, there are many things you can do to help :

Get your friend to talk to you. Starting a conversation about depression can be daunting, but you can say something simple: “You seem like you are really down, and not yourself. I really want to help you. Is there anything I can do?”

You don’t need to have the answers. Your friend just needs someone to listen and be supportive. By listening and responding in a non-judgmental and reassuring manner, you are helping in a major way.

Encourage your friend to get help. Urge your depressed friend to talk to a parent, teacher, or counselor. It might be scary for your friend to admit to an authority figure that they have a problem. Having you there might help, so offer to go along for support.

Stick with your friend through the hard times. Depression can make people do and say things that are hurtful or strange. But your friend is going through a very difficult time, so try not to take it personally. Once your friend gets help, they will go back to being the person you know and love. In the meantime, make sure you have other friends or family taking care of you. Your feelings are important and need to be respected, too.

Speak up if your friend is suicidal. If your friend is joking or talking about suicide, giving possessions away, or saying goodbye, tell a trusted adult immediately. Your only responsibility at this point is to get your friend help , and get it fast. Even if you promised not to tell, your friend needs your help. It’s better to have a friend who is temporarily angry at you than one who is no longer alive.

Depression support, suicide prevention help

Depression support.

Find  DBSA Chapters/Support Groups  or call the  NAMI Helpline  for support and referrals at 1-800-950-6264

Find  Depression support groups  in-person and online or call the  Mind Infoline  at 0300 123 3393

Call the  SANE Help Centre  at 1800 18 7263

Call  Mood Disorders Society of Canada  at 519-824-5565

Call the Vandrevala Foundation  Helpline (India)  at 1860 2662 345 or 1800 2333 330

Suicide prevention help

Call  988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline  at 988

Call  Samaritans UK  at 116 123

Call  Lifeline Australia  at 13 11 14

Visit  IASP  or  Suicide.org  to find a helpline near you

More Information

  • Depression: What You Need to Know - Depression in teenagers, including symptoms, remedies, and how to talk to your parents. (TeensHealth)
  • Depression in Teens - Recognizing and treating adolescent depression. (Mental Health America)
  • How to Talk to Your Parents About Getting Help - Speaking up for yourself is the first step to getting better. (Child Mind Institute)
  • Petito, A., Pop, T. L., Namazova-Baranova, L., Mestrovic, J., Nigri, L., Vural, M., Sacco, M., Giardino, I., Ferrara, P., & Pettoello-Mantovani, M. (2020). The Burden of Depression in Adolescents and the Importance of Early Recognition. The Journal of Pediatrics, 218, 265-267.e1. Link
  • Hallfors, D. D., Waller, M. W., Ford, C. A., Halpern, C. T., Brodish, P. H., & Iritani, B. (2004). Adolescent depression and suicide risk: Association with sex and drug behavior. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 27(3), 224–231. Link
  • Merikangas, K. R., He, J., Burstein, M., Swanson, S. A., Avenevoli, S., Cui, L., Benjet, C., Georgiades, K., & Swendsen, J. (2010). Lifetime Prevalence of Mental Disorders in U.S. Adolescents: Results from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication–Adolescent Supplement (NCS-A). Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 49(10), 980–989. Link
  • Bhatia, S. K., & Bhatia, S. C. (2007). Childhood and Adolescent Depression. American Family Physician, 75(1), 73–80. Link
  • NIMH » Major Depression. (n.d.). Retrieved July 26, 2021, from Link
  • Depressive Disorders. (2013). In Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders . American Psychiatric Association. Link

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Richard Brown

Post-Achievement Depression: Overcoming the Slump

Understanding that sinking feeling after accomplishing your goals..

Posted May 17, 2024 | Reviewed by Ray Parker

  • What Is Depression?
  • Find a therapist to overcome depression

I recently finished a project that I’d been working on for several years. Throughout the project, I assumed that I’d be thrilled and elated when I reached the end. Sadly, once I’d finished dotting the i's and crossing the t's, I was left with a numbing sense of emptiness.

Post-achievement depression involves experiencing a sense of purposelessness or sadness after completing a long-standing goal. This can produce a complex range of emotions, including lack of motivation, tiredness, restlessness, frustration, self-doubt, sadness, or an overall sense of melancholy and existential crisis.

This is a common experience and can happen in all walks of life. Students concluding their academic journeys, writers typing the final words of their manuscripts, office employees securing hard-won promotions, and athletes concluding their competitive careers, the aftermath of achievement knows no bounds. It's a shared human experience, resonating deeply across diverse paths and pursuits.

Jen Theodore / Unsplash

The Arrival Fallacy

Tal Ben-Shahar coined the term "the arrival fallacy" to refer to the false belief that achieving a particular goal will lead to an enduring sense of happiness . This captures an oversimplification of how we reason about the future. We often naively assume that if the efforts we make in the present are successful, they will undoubtedly lead to increased happiness further down the line. If only it were that simple.

Is Society to Blame?

In recent years, there's been a notable backlash against the culture of relentless goal-setting and perpetual striving for success. Some critics attribute this to society's fixation on productivity , while others highlight the risks associated with scaling steep and rigid hierarchies. Despite these recurring societal debates, it's essential to acknowledge the inherent drive many of us feel to set and accomplish our goals. There's a profound sense of satisfaction and purpose that accompanies being "on the hunt," a feeling that runs deep and can be a primary source of meaning in our lives.

What About Biology?

Humans are "hardwired" to strive, struggle, and seek out increasingly difficult challenges. Andrew Huberman has recently popularized the well-established relationships between dopamine , motivation, and satisfaction, describing dopamine as the propeller that drives our sense of motivation and pursuit. The release of dopamine in the brain, when an incremental step toward a chosen goal is achieved, enhances our motivation to strive further. The strides we make as we stalk our prey heighten our sense of excitement and drive. However, once we hit our target, the rewards may be short-lived, leaving us bereft of the thrill we experienced when pursuing our initial goal. Hence the old adage, “It's not the destination that counts; it's the journey .”

How to Respond

Perhaps the easiest place to start is to consider how not to respond. After completing a project or achieving a goal, there's often an innate expectation to celebrate exuberantly or revel in the newfound freedom to unwind and relax. While it's natural to celebrate or put your feet up, it's important not to force yourself to feel something you don’t. Avoid the temptation to chase elusive emotions through excessive or reckless behaviors.

An essential first step is to recognize and understand what you're experiencing. Engaging in discussions with others who have encountered similar feelings can shed light on the prevalence of post-achievement depression, offering validation and a sense of commonality in navigating your emotions.

In the weeks and months after a significant project in your life, it’s important to reflect on your experiences. What was it about what you were doing that motivated you to begin with? Did you find the process engaging, or were you simply under the illusion that the result would justify the hardship?

I enjoy the feeling of being focused and the hope that my work may make a small contribution to our knowledge and understanding of the world. I’m attracted to the challenge and purpose that come when I’m in the middle of a project, the promise that my self-discipline and hard work are meaningful for myself and others. Mostly, I enjoy feeling a sense of internal drive.

When this feeling of drive vanishes, it is perfectly natural for it to leave a void in your life. With time, you may come to recognize the recurring cycles of how you respond to the goals you set for yourself. You may choose to accept this as part of who you are. Sit with your feelings and recharge, but try to step into the next phase of your life a little wiser.

overcome depression essay

Several adjustments you can make in your approach to goals may help mitigate the impact of post-achievement depression.

Plan for the next thing: Instead of dwelling on the completion of one goal, have plans in place for the next endeavor to maintain momentum and a sense of purpose. You may plan to switch gears in between projects. For example, after a taxing mental challenge, changing your focus to recreational, charitable, or physical goals can help to recharge mentally while staying motivated.

Prioritize enjoying the process: Shift your focus from solely achieving the end result to appreciating the journey itself. Find joy and fulfillment in engaging with challenges and the skills and experiences you accrue along the way rather than solely fixating on the outcome. Implementing these adjustments can help foster a healthier and more sustainable approach to goal-setting, reducing the likelihood of experiencing post-achievement depression.

Markus Winkler / Unsplash

Experiencing post-achievement depression doesn't mean we should shy away from goals or taking on new challenges. Striving for achievement can provide us with a sense of purpose, direction, and fulfillment. However, regaining momentum after coming to a halt often requires significant effort. Prioritizing physical health can replenish energy stores and prepare us for the next phase of our journey.

It's important to recognize that while striving for personal growth and enriching the lives of those around us is admirable, it's essential not to fall into the trap of equating happiness solely with some elusive end product. Happiness routinely lies in the journey itself, in the relationships we build, and in the moments of growth and self-discovery along the way.

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Home / Essay Samples / Health / Depression / Overcoming Depression and Anxiety: Coping Strategies

Overcoming Depression and Anxiety: Coping Strategies

  • Category: Health
  • Topic: Anxiety , Depression , Mental Illness

Pages: 2 (884 words)

Views: 1069

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What is Depression?

  • Feeling sad or anxious often or all the time.
  • Not wanting to do activities that were fun before.
  • Feeling irritable, easily frustrated, or restless.
  • Having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
  • Getting up too early or sleeping too much.
  • Eating more or less than usual or not having an appetite.
  • Have stomach aches, pains, headaches, or problems that do not get better with treatment.
  • Having trouble concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions.
  • Feeling tired, even after a good night's sleep.
  • Feeling guilty, worthless or helpless.
  • Thinking about suicide or hurting yourself.

What Causes Depression?

  • Having blood relatives who have had depression.
  • Having suffered traumatic or stressful events, such as physical or sexual abuse, the death of a loved one, or financial problems.
  • Go through a significant change in life, even if it was planned.
  • Have a medical problem, such as cancer, stroke, or chronic pain.
  • Taking certain medications. Talk to your doctor if you have questions about whether your medications may be making you depressed.
  • Consumption of alcohol or drugs.

Who Gets Depression?

What about anxiety.

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