Today, the rate of people experiencing mental health problems is increasing rapidly worldwide. However, many people still feel hesitant when hearing terms such as “mental illness” or “mental disorder.” So, is depression actually a mental disorder?
This article was written by: Resident Doctor Do Van Duc - Psychiatrist, Integrated Mental Health Care Center - Vinmec Times City International General Hospital.
1. Is depression a type of mental disorder?
The short answer is: Yes. According to international medical classifications, depression (officially called Major Depressive Disorder) is one of the most common mental disorders.
However, it is important to understand that “mental disorders” is a broad term that includes many different groups:
- Mood disorders: Depression, bipolar disorder.
- Anxiety disorders: Generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder.
- Psychotic disorders: Schizophrenia, delusional disorder.
- Behavioral and somatic-related disorders: Eating disorders, sleep disorders.
- Trauma-related and dissociative disorders.
Depression is not just a temporary feeling of sadness. It is a real medical condition involving an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, affecting thoughts, emotions, and the ability to perform daily activities.
2. Causes of depression
Depression does not have a single cause but results from a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors. People who have experienced negative life events such as job loss, bereavement, or psychological trauma are at higher risk.
Notably, depression can create a “vicious cycle”: it reduces a person’s ability to function in daily life, increases stress, and in turn worsens the condition.
There is also a strong two-way relationship between depression and physical health. Unhealthy lifestyles such as physical inactivity or alcohol/substance abuse increase the risk of depression and also contribute to non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. People with chronic illnesses are also more likely to develop depression due to long-term stress and disease burden.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that the following are not causes of depression:
- Being weak in personality.
- Being lazy.
- Being pessimistic or simply needing a change in thinking.
3. Symptoms of depression
To diagnose depressive disorder, symptoms usually last at least 2 weeks and include:
- Depressed mood most of the day.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in most activities.
- Significant weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting, or changes in appetite.
- Insomnia or excessive sleep.
- Psychomotor agitation or retardation.
- Fatigue or loss of energy.
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
- Difficulty concentrating, indecisiveness.
- Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal plans, or suicide attempts.
4. When to see a psychiatrist or therapist?
Please seek help from a psychiatrist or psychologist if you have any of the following:
- Depressive symptoms present most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks.
- Significant impairment in work, study, or relationships.
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Talking to friends or family can help temporarily, but for effective and long-term treatment, you should consult a psychiatrist or therapist.
If you experience thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or feel that life is no longer worth living, seek immediate professional help or emergency services.
5. Helping a loved one with depression
Show care and let them know you want to help. Listen without judgment and offer support.
If they are prescribed medication, help them take it as directed. Encourage healthy habits such as adequate sleep, regular exercise, and a balanced diet.
If you notice any signs of self-harm or suicidal intent, share your concerns, contact a healthcare professional, or call emergency services immediately. This is a life-threatening emergency.
6. Possible complications of depression
If untreated, depression can lead to serious consequences:
- Psychological and social effects:
- Reduced quality of life and emotional control.
- Family conflicts and social relationship difficulties.
- Poor academic/work performance, increased dropout or unemployment.
- Physical health risks:
- Increased risk or worsening of cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes.
- Chronic sleep disorders, eating disorders, weakened immune system.
- Most serious risk:
- Self-harm and suicide: about 15% of people with depression may die by suicide.
7. How to prevent depression?
Depression cannot always be fully prevented, but healthy lifestyle habits can significantly reduce risk:
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Regular physical activity, balanced diet, hydration, and avoiding alcohol/drugs.
- Prioritize sleep: Good sleep helps regulate emotions and reduce stress.
- Manage stress effectively: Meditation, yoga, relaxation techniques.
- Maintain social connections: Strong relationships with family, friends, and community reduce loneliness and improve mental resilience.
Early intervention is key to preventing worsening of depression.
At the Integrated Mental Health Care Center, we are always ready to accompany, listen, and provide timely professional support in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
