Understanding the Layers of Depression to Prevent Crisis Situations
- Nagnouma Sako
- May 20
- 5 min read
Let’s Talk About Depression, Friends
Have you ever felt like life just hits pause-like the joy button got turned way down and you can’t quite figure out why? You’re not alone.
In fact, what you’re feeling might have a name: depression. It’s one of the most common-and most misunderstood-mental health conditions out there. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the world’s leading mental health disorder.
But here’s the thing: it doesn’t always look like tears and dramatic movie scenes. Sometimes it shows up as exhaustion, irritability, silence, or even a perfectly curated smile that hides a whole storm inside.
So today, let’s gently peel back the layers and talk about it-not in a heavy, clinical way, but in a real, honest, human way. Because chances are, you or someone you love has been touched by depression at some point. And talking about it is the first step toward healing and destigmatization.
What Is Depression, Really?
According to the World Health Organization, depression is:
“A common mental disorder characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities. It can also disturb sleep and appetite; tiredness and poor concentration are common.”
In other words, depression is not “just being sad.” It can affect how you think, feel, move, eat, sleep-and how you show up in your life. It can sneak into your routine without a grand announcement. One day you’re fine, the next… everything feels harder.
Here Are Some Common Types of Depression
Yes, depression wears many hats-and understanding the different types can help us recognize when something’s off. Here are some of the most common forms:
Major Depressive Disorder - Persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, and changes in sleep or appetite that interfere with daily life.
Persistent Depressive Disorder - A chronic, low-level sadness that lasts for two years or more.
Postpartum Depression - Affects some new mothers after childbirth; more than just “baby blues.”
Prenatal Depression - Depression during pregnancy, often under-discussed but very real.
Seasonal Affective Disorder - Linked to reduced sunlight in colder months, affecting mood and energy (Yes, you’re not crazy during those winter months people moods take a plunge ...)
Bipolar Depression - The depressive side of bipolar disorder, alternating with manic or hypomanic episodes.
Atypical Depression - Includes mood reactivity but also symptoms like oversleeping, overeating, and rejection sensitivity.
No two people experience depression the same way, which is why awareness matters so much.
Depression Is More Common Than You Think
In my clinical work and personal reflections, one thing has become crystal clear: depression is everywhere. It can come after a heartbreak, a failed exam, the loss of a loved one, even during a seemingly happy time in your life, or for no apparent reason. Let’s not forget that it can very well be genetic-yep because you inherited the genes from your parents who also got it from their parents- (It can be a family affair-oh boy!)
Even people we admire go through it. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the renowned Nigerian writer, has shared her experience with depression, saying she had no reason to feel that way-but it happened. Brooke Shields, Cardi B, and Hailey Bieber (to name a few celebrities) have been vocal about their struggles after childbirth.
This tells us something powerful: depression doesn’t discriminate. It can show up in anyone’s life. And it deserves our attention, not our silence.
Why This Conversation Matters
One of the hardest parts about depression is how isolating it can be. It convinces people to retreat, shut down, and stop reaching out. And unfortunately, others might take that personally.
Here’s the truth: When someone starts acting “off,” it’s not always about you. Sometimes they’re silently battling something they don’t yet understand.
That’s why community matters so deeply. We need to start recognizing the signs, checking in more often, and supporting each other in thoughtful, nonjudgmental ways.
Preventative Measures: Can We Help Prevent Depression?
We can’t always prevent depression entirely-but we can build resilience and emotional strength through daily habits and lifestyle choices. Here are some key preventative measures:
Stay socially connected: Prioritize quality relationships and regular conversations. Isolation is a breeding ground for depression.
Move your body: Exercise releases endorphins, reduces stress, and improves mood.
Establish a sleep routine: Poor sleep can worsen your mental health-keep a regular sleep-wake cycle.
Eat balanced meals: Nutrient deficiencies (like B12, omega-3s) can affect your mood.
Manage stress proactively: Journaling, mindfulness, breathing exercises, resting-do whatever helps you decompress (in the healthy department of course).
Create purpose and structure: Daily routines, small goals, or creative outlets give your days meaning.
Limit alcohol and substance use: These can worsen symptoms or increase vulnerability to depression.
Ask for help early: If something feels off, don’t wait for a breakdown to seek support.
The Number One Treatment for Depression
Now here’s the good news: depression is treatable. And the number one recommended treatment?
A combination of therapy and lifestyle support-Now that’s what I’m talking about...be creative! That means:
Talk therapy (like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT) to reframe negative thinking and build coping tools.
Medication when necessary, prescribed and monitored by a medical professional. This is often a temporary solution while symptoms improve.
Social connection, structure, physical activity, and support from loved ones to create a safe and supportive environment for healing.
In short: a holistic approach wins!
Early intervention makes a huge difference
The sooner someone starts treatment, the better the outcomes tend to be. So, if you or someone you care about has been struggling for a while, let this be your sign to take that next step!
What Can You Do to Help Others?
You don’t need a mental health degree to be a good friend or family member. Sometimes, all it takes is presence and compassion:
Send that message - Yes, even if they haven’t replied lately.
Invite them out - even for a short walk or video call.
Listen without trying to fix it - sometimes they just need to be heard.
Help them find resources - Whether it’s a support group, a free workshop, or a mental health counselor/therapist.
Remind them they’re not alone - Even the smallest gesture can become a lifeline.
To end!
Depression is real. It’s common. It’s serious. And it’s the leading cause of suicide. But it’s also treatable, preventable, and-most importantly-not something to be ashamed of.
We need more open conversations, more empathy, and more reminders that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.
Let’s keep showing up for ourselves. Let’s keep showing up for each other. Because healing happens in connection-and no one should have to go through this alone.
References:
About the Author: My name is Nagnouma Sako. I’m a clinical intern at Allow Health LLC, completing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My multicultural background has shaped who I am, enriching my perspective and deepening my appreciation for different worldviews. My journey into mental health comes after 10+ years in accounting and nonprofit management. If you ask me, I haven’t strayed too far from my true passion-helping people-only now, I get to do it more intimately and directly!
A heartfelt thanks to all of you for reading our blog! Let's normalize mental health together!
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