On the eve of National Depression Day, the topic of 'Wednesdays with Prevention' is depression. Invited experts will try to explain what sadness is and what depression is, as well as how to take care of yourself and how to support your loved ones.
Depression is a growing health and social problem. The World Health Organisation estimates that depression will be the most prevalent illness worldwide by 2030.
It is estimated that around 1.2 million people in Poland suffer from depression. Report data NHF on health. Depression indicate that reimbursed antidepressants were purchased by 1.5 million people in 2021 and this was 59% more than in 2013. In the same year, services were provided to 682,000 patients with a diagnosis of depression as their main or comorbid diagnosis.
Sadness or depression
Depression is not a temporary lowering of mood, but a serious mental disorder. Depression makes it very difficult to function in many spheres of life, such as work or relationships with other people. It is a source of suffering for those who experience it. Often the first symptoms go unnoticed, not only by relatives, but even by the patients themselves.
Symptoms of depression - don't underestimate them!
What is sadness and what is depression?
How to recognise depression and how to help a loved one?
Where to seek help?
Questions in footage reply to Maciej Żerdziński, MD, PhD - psychiatrist and Justyna Soroka, MA - psychologist, child psychologist.
Prevent depression and lead a healthy lifestyle
One of the best ways to prevent, as well as treat, depression is physical activity. Walking and brisk walking is the type of exercise that is the most versatile, undemanding and has measurable effects.
In depression, nutrition also matters! Proper nutrition affects the levels of serotonin, known as the happy hormone. You will find lots of practical tips and ready-made recipes in the nutrition plan DASH Depression on the free portal https://diety.nfz.gov.pl.
Educational materials prepared as part of the 'Wednesday with Prevention' campaign are available free of charge at:
- channel YouTube NFZ Academy
- and on the website of the National Health Fund - https://www.nfz.gov.pl/aktualnosci/aktualnosci-oddzialow/