Depressed? You’re Not So Special After All.
Depression gnaws on the brain like a mouse nibble cheese. Or it festers like an open wound. We’ve been there. We understand. It’s terrifying.
It might be hard to get some perspective right now but know this: What you’re going through is far more common than you could imagine. Sorry to break it to you, but you’re not that special.
Don’t believe us? Continuing our blog series for Mental Health Month 2021, here’s some stats on mental health that prove you’re not alone (and never will be).
Depression and Anxiety Are the Top 2 Mental Health Issues in the US
Source: ACCESS Community Health Network
Yep, there are millions of people going through the same experience as you right now. That doesn’t make things better, but it proves what you’re going through is completely normal. It’s called being human. We all stumble from time to time, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Around 40 Million US Adults Suffer From Anxiety Every Year
Source: Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
That’s around 18 percent of the population. Though anxiety-related disorders are treatable, only 37 percent of people receive treatment. It’s important to remember there’s help out there, and you could lead a happier, more fulfilling life if you reach out to someone.
Over 264 Million People Worldwide Suffer From Depression
Source: World Health Organization (WHO)
That’s around the same number of people as Japan, Egypt, and the United Kingdom combined. That’s a lot of people.
The Pandemic Has Increased Depression Systems in US Adults
Source: Various (via JAMA Network)
Depression systems in US adults have increased three-fold since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Having a lower income, less than $5,000 in savings, and exposure to more stressors increased the risk of depression among adults. The economic fallout of the pandemic has hit our industry particularly hard, and many of us that work in theatrical exhibition and motion pictures have experienced financial hardship over the last year.
Depression Can Lead to a Whole Host of Effects on the Body
Source: Healthline
Some of the most common effects of depression on the body include:
- Insomnia
- Feelings of emptiness or sadness
- Increased risk of heart attack
- Increased pain sensitivity
- Memory problems
- Fatigue
- Weakened immune system
Note that lots of people experience the same symptoms as you, and you’re not the only person to feel this way.
Before You Go
It’s easy to think of mental health as something that’s just happening to just us. Everyone else is having an incredible life while we’re at home thinking about stuff. These feelings lead to trouble sleeping, irritability at work, and a lack of interest in life.
Many people experience what we experience. But those people don’t talk about it. That’s unfortunate because there are plenty of other people who want to listen. People like the folks at Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation providing counseling and support services for veterans like you. Reach out, and you’ll realize you’re just like everyone else.