[Emotional Health] shares 9 statistics about depression recovery that might surprise you.
Depression tends to be widely misunderstood in American
society. If you or someone that you love
suffers from depression, you may feel at a loss as to how to help in the
recovery process. One way to begin is by arming yourself with knowledge. Here are
9 depression recovery statistics that might surprise you.
● Major Depressive Disorder is more common
than you might think. In fact, there is no larger cause
of
disability in the
U.S. than depression for individuals between the ages of 15 and 44. No matter
how isolate you, or your depressed loved one may feel, the numbers don’t lie:
you are not alone.
● Fear and shame prevent many people from
seeking help.
One key characteristic of depression that can interfere with recovery
efforts, is isolation. Additionally, 54% of individuals see depression not as a
medical condition, but as a personal weakness. In women, embarrassment prevents
41% of depressed females from seeking the help they need to recover. Perhaps these
reasons can explain
why a full 80% of depressed people are not currently in any sort of depression
recovery treatment program.
● Depression is expensive. The sum of medical bills, pharmaceutical costs, lost productivity
and missed work cost employers an estimated $51 billion each
year.
● Pharmaceutical treatments are largely
ineffective in treating depression. In fact, less that 50% of depression patients
see results from pharmaceutical intervention for their symptoms. Some studies
place the efficacy as low as 30%.
● One of the biggest factors in depression
recovery is connection. Developing and nourishing
fulfilling relationships and social support systems at home and work are a crucial
factor in reducing
feelings of isolation associated with depression.
● Alternative methods can alter the brain. Depressed patients who engage in learning and practicing prayer and
meditation techniques, as well as mindfulness practices and yoga, can actually change their
brains
is positive ways to reduce depression.
● Spirituality lends a sense of purpose that
fights depression.
People who engage in practicing spiritual principle and exercised that
help them to develop a deeper sense of purpose in their lives are more likely to recover from their
depression.
● Spending time in the presence of nature
reduces depression. Whether taking walks outside,
or bringing nature inside in the form of potted plants, maintaining a connection
to the natural world helps
to reduce depressive
symptoms.
● Animal companionship aids in depression
recovery. More and more studies are
revealing the
intricacies of the bond between humans and animals. As more research is
conducted, more positive mental and physical effects of animal companionship
are discovered that help people to increase happiness and fulfillment in their
lives.
When seeking out the best depression recovery program for yourself
or someone close to you, keep these statistics in mind. A comprehensive program that addresses all levels
of a person’s depression is crucial. As the above statistics and facts
illustrate, fostering a sense of connection to other people and the world can
go a long way towards long-term recovery from depression.
