Mental health
Survey: Five percent of adults currently suffering from depression
Updated on November 26, 2024Reading time: 3 min.
People with depression often feel depressed for a long time and find it tough to feel joy.This is not only bad for the sick, but usually also for their relatives.
according to their own statements, almost five percent of adults under the age of 70 in Germany currently suffer from medically diagnosed depression. This emerges from a representative survey,the current “Germany Barometer Depression”. Among those surveyed, 24 percent said they had been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives.
“Depression is diagnosed much more frequently today because more people are getting help,” said the chairman of the German Depression Aid and Suicide prevention Foundation responsible for the survey, Ulrich Hegerl, at an online press conference. Doctors would also be able to recognize the disease better. As a result of the corona pandemic measures, many people had a relapse or experienced a deterioration.
However, according to Hegerl, external influences are not the main factor for illness.“The decisive factor is the disposition,” explained the psychiatrist. Anyone with a genetic predisposition can become ill. People without a genetic predisposition,on the other hand,never get really depressed,even if they are feeling very badly.
Of all those surveyed, around one in four (26 percent) said they had relatives with depression. You don’t always know whether family members or your partner are sick, so it’s possible that the actual number is higher, said Hegerl.
Of people with a depression diagnosis, a good third (34 percent) said that family members in the same household had depression. According to their own statements, 13 percent of people without a background of depression have sick family members in their household.
According to the foundation, the diagnosis is made if at least two of the three main symptoms (loss of interest and joy, depressed mood, lack of drive) and at least two secondary symptoms (including, for example, sleep disorders, suicidal thoughts, loss of appetite) are present for two weeks or longer.
the disease usually occurs in recurring episodes.Depression is a serious illness that profoundly affects the way those affected think, feel and act and causes considerable suffering.
“I was just brooding and consumed by self-doubt,” said one affected person when the results were presented. For a long time he was unable to classify his feelings. “At some point I was no longer able to live, I couldn’t go shopping anymore, I couldn’t make phone calls anymore.”
With the support of his partner, he finally decided to go to therapy and take antidepressants. “What helped me immensely was talking about it as I no longer felt wrong.” His partner was also an significant support.
A large majority (77 percent) of those surveyed with sick relatives said in the survey that they perceived their depression as stressful or very stressful.“It is indeed very critically important for relatives to simply be understanding,” said the partner of the depressed person during the press conference.
When her partner was feeling particularly bad, she had to take on more and more things for him or put up with his bad mood. What helped her was the certainty: “It’s not intentional, it’s an illness.”
The study was commissioned by the foundation. 5,000 people between the ages of 18 and 69 took part in the online survey. It is the eighth edition of the study, which annually determines attitudes and experiences regarding depression in the German population. The “Germany Barometer Depression” is funded by the Deutsche Bahn Foundation.
In the event of an illness or suspicion of depression, a conversation with a doctor or a psychotherapist is essential, according to the German Depression Aid. There are also free online or telephone consultations, self-help groups and online forums.
How can families effectively support a loved one suffering from depression?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Ulrich Hegerl, Chairman of the German Depression Aid and Suicide Prevention Foundation
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Ulrich. The recent “Germany Barometer Depression” survey reveals some startling statistics about depression rates among adults in Germany.To start,can you tell us what the survey found?
Ulrich Hegerl: Thank you for having me. The survey indicates that nearly five percent of adults under the age of 70 in Germany currently suffer from medically diagnosed depression. Also noteworthy is that about 24 percent of people surveyed admitted to having been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives.
Editor: Those figures are significant.What do you think accounts for the increase in diagnosed cases of depression in recent years?
Ulrich Hegerl: One major factor is that more people are seeking help than they did in the past.The stigma around mental health is gradually diminishing, making it easier for individuals to come forward. Additionally,healthcare professionals are better equipped to identify depression. However, we must recognize that these diagnoses have also been influenced by external factors, notably the stress and challenges many faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Editor: Speaking of the pandemic, do you think it has had a lasting impact on people’s mental health?
Ulrich Hegerl: Absolutely.The pandemic has certainly exacerbated existing conditions for many individuals, leading to relapses or a deterioration of their mental health. But it’s essential to note that while external circumstances can play a significant role, the primary factor for depression is still genetic predisposition.Those with a genetic vulnerability are at a higher risk of developing the illness.
Editor: It’s captivating that you brought up genetic factors. How does a person’s family history influence the likelihood of developing depression?
Ulrich Hegerl: Family history is crucial. In the survey, about 26 percent of respondents indicated they have relatives with depression. This suggests that there might be higher prevalence rates than we currently understand as many might be unaware of their family members’ struggles. More distressingly, among those diagnosed with depression, around 34 percent reported that someone in their household also suffers from depression.
Editor: That’s quite revealing. In cases where a depression diagnosis exists in a household, how do you believe this impacts the overall family dynamic?
Ulrich Hegerl: Depression can be a heavy burden not just for the individual but also for their loved ones. Family members often find it challenging to understand what their loved one is experiencing, which can lead to tension and emotional strain. This shared experience of depression within a household may increase the likelihood of others in the family facing mental health challenges themselves.
Editor: With such interconnectedness, what steps can individuals and families take to support those dealing with depression?
Ulrich Hegerl: Open communication is pivotal. Families should create a safe space for discussing mental health and encourage seeking professional help. Additionally, educating themselves about depression can foster understanding and compassion. Offering emotional support, being patient, and encouraging treatment can also play a significant role in recovery.
Editor: Before we conclude, Ulrich, what message would you like to convey to anyone who might be struggling with depression or who has a loved one dealing with it?
Ulrich hegerl: I want to emphasize that it’s vital to acknowledge that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional or a trusted person in your life. And for loved ones, your support can make a meaningful difference. Together,we can destigmatize these discussions and contribute to a more understanding society.
Editor: Thank you, Ulrich, for your insights and for shedding light on such a critical issue in our society. We appreciate your time and dedication to mental health awareness.