Depression
Depression is a severe mood disorder that affects nearly 34% of Canadian farmers. While we often think that it’s just about feeling unhappy and hopeless, depression might also manifest itself in angry outbursts, taking unnecessary risks, and drinking more than usual.
SIGNS OF DEPRESSION
Depression is not something people can “get over” or “turn off” when they want to. Our moods aren’t a light switch! Instead, it’s a serious but treatable mental health disorder caused by a combination of factors such as your genetics, your personality, the amount of stress in your life, and your brain chemistry.
The main signs and symptom of depression is a sad, despairing mood that:
is present most days and lasts most of the day
lasts for more than two weeks
impairs the person’s performance at work, school or in social relationships.
OTHER SIGNS TO WATCH OUT FOR
Feeling extreme fatigue
Having trouble sleeping
Losing interest in things that are usually enjoyable, like work, hobbies, people or sex
Feeling sad, empty or hopeless
Eating a lot more or a lot less than normal
Having trouble concentrating, remembering or making decisions
CAUSES OF DEPRESSION
There is no single cause of depression, and it can happen to anyone. What we do know is that it can be triggered by a few factors that put a person at great risk:
a family history of depression
physical health problems such as B-vitamin deficiency or hypothyroidism
major life stressors such as divorce, unexpected and sudden financial troubles, or the death of a loved one
What Can You Do
Since depression has been around for a long time and impacts so many people, there are many ways to manage it. Some professionals can give you answers and suggest a course that works for your lifestyle. In addition, their support groups and even self-help organizations can be an essential part of treatment and recovery for people with depression.
Remember that depression needs to be managed over a person's lifetime. It’s like having a health condition like diabetes; you can control it by combining a healthy lifestyle, professional therapy, and medication.
AgKnow is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are in crisis, please visit your local emergency department or call 911. If you are experiencing depression and need support, many treatments are available for you.
Resources for DEPRESSION
Article by Dr Rebecca Purc-Stephenson
Applied Social Psychologist and Professor in the Department of Social Sciences
BOOKING AN AGKNOW SESSION
CHOOSE A THERAPIST
The members in our referral network have experience with farmers and the agriculture industry in Alberta. We know context is important so you can spend less time getting them up to speed and more time getting to the root of the issue.
SCHEDULE A CALL
You have direct access to everyone in our referral network, so once you find a therapist you resonate with, fill out their form and book your first session.
TALK ABOUT IT
Whether in person, virtual or through a telephone session now is your chance to talk about how you are really doing. Remember - we were never meant to do this alone.
