Depression

Sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or the loss of a loved one are experiences a person goes through in life. Some people recover over time, while others require professional support from a psychologist or mental health therapist.

The most common type of depression that everyone observes is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). It is diagnosed when a person experiences a persistently low or sad mood for at least two weeks. These clients often suffer from low energy, poor appetite, poor sleep pattern, worthlessness and weight loss. They also tend to be less social and lose interest in activities they once enjoyed.

In Pakistan, many people living in villages do not recognize depression as a disorder because lack of mental health awareness in rural areas. Consequently, they ignore the issue, which eventually affects their physical health, emotional well-being, and daily life.

What percentage of people have depression?

Depression is very common, affecting almost every second person. Some experience depression due to job-related stress, while others struggle with relationship issues, financial problems, or academic pressure.

Globally, the prevalence of depression is a universal affliction.

In 2021 WHO estimates that about 280 million people suffer from depression worldwide. In which about 5% of the adult population and 5.7% of elderly individuals above 60 suffer from depression.

Many people with depression don’t seek help, so the actual number may be higher.

• About 60% avoid professional support, partly due to stigma.
• WHO reports that over 75% in low- and middle-income countries don’t get treatment due to barriers.

How much have depression rates increased?

Article published in 2025 notes that depression affects not only mental health but also hastens diseases like heart diseases and diabetes. Individuals with a history of depression are at higher risk for long-term health problems than those who never have had depression. Research involving more than 172,500 individuals in the UK clearly indicates that depression is related to chronic illness.  As a result of this, individuals with depression develop chronic conditions 30% earlier than individuals without a history of depression.

There was no increase of depression in older age groups.

Statistics by type of depression

Several types of depression exist. Symptoms may show up in slightly different ways. According to DSM there are many types of depression: 

Major depressive disorder

When people refer to “depression,” they’re often talking about major or clinical depression. Most often Depression understood as severe or clinical depression. 

According to NIMH’s well-reputed sources, during the year 2021 almost 21 million adults or 8.3 percent of the total adult population in the United States have experienced some version of major depression in their lifetime. 

This subtype of depression is considerably more probable in: 

• Females than male (10.3% vs 6.2%)
• Young people aged between 18 and 25 (18.6%)
• Mixed race or ethnicity (13.9%)

Similar patterns will continue to emerge in 2024, but the numbers themselves will be found in future reports from the likes of NIMH and CDC.

Persistent depressive disorder

Persistent depressive disorder, in other words, dwarf depression, is the most long-lasting one. Even in this case, the person feels sad, tired, and indifferent about life almost constantly. Sometimes the intensity may increase. So the interference with daily activities is there. Furthermore, enjoyment of activities gets diminished.

Duration of Suffering from Persistent Depressive Disorder

This illness may persist for around two years or more. In most patients, the symptoms often tend to be advisable when they do not reach up to being debilitating like in major depressive disorders. Yet, this is a very long period to suffer from such miserable feelings.

 Symptoms and Effects

Mood changes in continual depressive states are mild but can still cause great suffering and affect daily functioning.

 How Common Is Persistent Depressive Disorder?

Research indicates that as many as 3% of individuals in the U.S. actually have this form of depression.

If you are battling chronic depression symptoms or know someone who is, visiting a therapist can help tremendously.

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II Disorder

• Bipolar I Disorder: This type includes severe manic episodes, which often followed by periods of depression.
• Bipolar II Disorder: This involves episodes of depression along with (hypomania) that come and go.

How Common Are Bipolar Disorders?

• A 2018 study estimated that about 1% of people worldwide have Bipolar I disorder, though rates vary.
• According to older research Bipolar I disorder affects between 0.6% and 1.06% of the population.
• A 2012–2013 survey indicated that the number could be as high as 2.1%.
• Bipolar II disorder is estimated to affect around 1.57% of people in their lifetime.

For accurate diagnosis and treatment, consulting a mental health professional is always recommended.

Seasonal depression

What is Seasonal Depression (SAD)?

It is a mood disorder occurring with seasonal changes. It generally begins in the fall or winter. Sometimes people experience it during the spring or summer.

Common Symptoms of Seasonal Depression

• Persistent sadness and low mood
• Low energy levels and fatigue
• Changes in sleep patterns and eating habits

Causes of Seasonal Depression

• Lack of contact with sunlight in winter
• Low serotonin levels affect the mood
• Melatonin levels increased, causing fatigue

Effective Treatments for SAD

• Light therapy and Medications, such as antidepressants like citalopram can help manage symptoms.
• Psychotherapy to improve coping strategies with this seasonal changes

How Common Is Seasonal Depression?

According to research, in Kashmir, about 36.6% and 46.3% of people suffer from seasonal depression in autumn and winter, respectively.

Among them,

• Women= 72%
• Men= 28%

Can Seasonal Depression Be Treated?

Yes seasonal depression can be treated. With the help of

• Right treatment
• Mental Health professional

Postpartum depression

What is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a long-lasting and severe condition that affects new mothers after childbirth..

Causes of Postpartum

• Hormonal Changes – Rapid decline of estrogen and progesterone will directly affect mood.
• Sleep Deprivation – It increases stress and emotional instability.
• Newborn care stress – A child care pressure can be heavy.

Symptoms of postpartum depression are:

• Continuous sadness, disappointment, or guilt
• Fatigue and lack of inspiration
• Difficulty in having a relationship with a child
• Changes in appetite and sleep
• Social withdrawal and loss of interest
• Thoughts of self-loss or harm to child (serious cases)

Global Prevalence and Research

• 2023 Lancet Psychiatry Study – 12-20% of new mothers experience PPD, with higher rates in developing countries.
• 2024 WHO Study – One in seven women suffers from PPD, with symptoms lasting up to a year if untreated.

Who is at Higher Risk?

• Young mothers – Teen pregnancies increase emotional distress.
• Urban residents – City life brings more stress.
• Mothers of premature babies – Added medical challenges raise emotional strain.

Treatment and Management

• Therapy – Like Counseling and CBT help manage emotions.
• Medication – Like antidepressants if needed.
• Lifestyle changes – like daily exercise, a rich diet and proper comfort.
• Support Network – Talking to family, friends, or support groups reduces isolation.

Psychotic depression

What Is Psychotic Depression?

Psychotic depression is major depressive disorder with psychotic features. It is the most severe form of depressive disorder. In which there exist delusions, hallucinations, or extremely negative thoughts; this makes it far worse than normal depression.

How Common Is Psychotic Depression?

This research was limited, however, concluded from the evidence that has since led experts to believe that psychotic depression is more common than previously thought.

🔹 According to a 2021 study that described:

• 4 in 1,000 adults may encounter psychotic depression.
• The number can be as high as 14 to 30 per 1,000 among the aged 60 and older.

Moreover, studies indicate that psychotic symptoms are often present in Depression:

• 10-19% of the general population.
• 25-45% of hospitalized patients.
• 24-53% of elderly patients.

What Do Recent Studies Say?

🔹 A recent study published in the World Psychiatry Journal in 2023 proposes that untreated psychotic depression worsens in the course of time.

🔹 The first step is that ignoring them increases the commitment to increase the chance of suicide; hence intervention must be speedy.

Treatment and Management of Psychotic Depression

Early diagnosis and treatment improve a lot in recovery. Common treatment options include:

• Medication – Depressed individuals are at times started on an antidepressant or antipsychotic medication to deal with the symptoms.
• Therapy – speaking to a psychologist can help improve the quality and understanding of both thought and emotion.
• Support System – Family and Friends play a role in making the patient to recover.

If anyone has psychotic symptoms and is experiencing depression, visit professional help immediately.

Symptom statistics

According to NIMH trusted source, in 2021, nearly 21 million adults (8.3% of the total U.S. adult population) experienced some form of major depression.

Symptoms of Depression:

• Sadness or emptiness for most of the time
• Irritability or easy upset-ability
• Tiredness or lack of energy
• Loss of interest in those things that one likes doing most
• Trouble with concentration or making decisions
• insomnia and hypersomnia
• suicidal thoughts and self-harms

If sadness persists for over two weeks, it is important to talk to a mental health professional. The earlier the treatment of depression occurs, the faster recovery takes place.

Who is depression more common in?

The occurrence of depression can affect anyone; however, some people are genetically more predisposed, or their symptoms may arise from environmental factors or hormones. It is never one factor alone, but a combination of factors may cause depression to ensue.

Some of the common risk factors include:

• According to a 2021 study, 6% of adults with depression or anxiety reported that they had experienced childhood trauma.
• Those with PTSD tendencies, anxiety, and OCD also generally show higher tendencies toward depression.
• Diabetes or chronic pain really collide with about 9–25% of the depressed patient population.
• About 12–80% of depressed patients have been reported to have alcohol and drug addiction.
• In the case of a family history of depression, the risk is trebled.

Recent Research:

The Lancet Psychiatry in 2023 shows that Young adults, women, and individuals with limited social support are at higher risk. The study emphasizes early intervention and the need for awareness campaigns targeting mental health.

Best Ways to Treat Depression 

There are different ways to treat depression, but experts say that therapy and drug together work together. However, therapy or antidepressant alone can still help many people.

How Antidepressants Help 

• 40%–60% of people with moderate or severe depression feel better after 6–8 weeks of using antidepressants.
• 20%–40% of people taking a placebo also improve, but fewer than those using real medication.
• 23% of people taking antidepressants relapse within one or two years; however, 50% of subjects on placebo have the same problem.

 Latest Research on Depression Treatment 

A meta-analysis in JAMA Psychiatry found that the best long-term results come from a combination of therapy and medication. The study also showed that regular exercise and strong social support can improve recovery. 

Question & Answers 

The Hidden Truth About Depression

• Shocking depression statistics in 2025 that no one talks about?

Depression cases have surged globally, with over 300 million affected and a drastic rise in youth suicide rates.

• Hidden facts about major depressive disorder that will surprise you?

 Nearly 60% of people with depression never seek professional help due to stigma.

• Unspoken truth about depression rates in Pakistan and the USA?

Pakistan has a mental health crisis with limited resources, while the USA faces rising depression despite advanced treatments.

Causes & Risk Factors of Depression

• Why depression is increasing in young adults and what to do about it ?

Social media pressure, academic stress, and job uncertainty fuel the rise, making early intervention crucial.

• Surprising reasons behind the rising depression epidemic worldwide?

 Climate change, economic instability, and digital addiction contribute significantly to global depression rates.

• Do you know about unnoticed causes of depression that might be affecting you?

 Poor gut health, vitamin deficiencies, and chronic sleep deprivation are often overlooked triggers.

Depression Treatment & Therapy

• The best therapy for depression backed by science and real results?

 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most effective, with long-term success in managing depressive symptoms.

• Hidden benefits of antidepressants that most people don’t know?

 Antidepressants can improve neuroplasticity, helping the brain rewire itself for better emotional regulation.

• Do You know how to cure depression naturally without medication and therapy?

Exercise, mindfulness, and a well-balanced diet can significantly reduce depression symptoms..

Daily Life & Depression

• How untreated depression can silently ruin your daily life?

 It affects relationships, productivity, and physical health, leading to a cycle of self-isolation and despair.

• The shocking link between depression and workplace failure?

 Depression lowers motivation, increases absenteeism, and reduces overall job performance.

• The secret impact of depression on relationships no one discusses?

Depression can cause emotional detachment, leading to misunderstandings, resentment, and relationship difficulties.

• What are the hidden postpartum depression symptoms every new mom should watch for?

Persistent sadness, extreme fatigue, and difficulty bonding with the baby are major red flags.

• How seasonal depression affects your mood and also what you can do to stop it?

 Light therapy, vitamin D supplements, and outdoor activities help combat seasonal depression.

• Why winter depression is worse than you think? And how to fix it fast?

 Lack of sunlight disrupts serotonin levels, making lifestyle changes and therapy essential for recovery.

Takeaway

• Depression is a common but complex mental health problem.
• It affects millions of people worldwide.
• Therapy and medication can help treat it.
• Adopting a healthy lifestyle is also very important.
• Exercise, a balanced diet, and a support system play an important role in recovery.
• Everyone’s experience of depression can be different.
• Some people may experience it for no apparent reason.
• Getting help early is very beneficial.
• Consulting a psychologist can make the journey to recovery easier.