Depression is common within the gay community, but what is it and how can it be dealt with?
What is it?
Many of us can expect to experience some form of depression in our lifetime.
For most this will be mild, but some may suffer more serious forms of
depression which can have devastating effects, eroding the sufferer’s
ability to enjoy life. Research has shown that depression is the leading
cause of suicide.
There are several types of depression. Long-term, low grade depression
is known as Dysthymia. Those affected by dysthymia often report feelings
of dissatisfaction with their lives. Major Depression is a more serious
condition, involving feelings of worthlessness and suicide ideation.
Bipolar Disorder, characterized by alternate periods of depression and
elation, is another common type of depressive illness. A milder form of
bipolar disorder is referred to as Cyclothymia.
Symptoms
The symptoms of depressive illness are legion, and vary between individuals.
They may include feelings of worthlessness, social withdrawal, restlessness
or lethargy, difficulty in concentrating, insomnia, weight loss/gain,
and appetite decrease/increase. Recurrent thoughts of death and suicide
ideation or attempts are symptoms of profound depression.
The symptoms of mania (which those affected by Bipolar Disorder may suffer
from) include the following: elation, hyperactivity, insomnia, paranoia
and delusions of grandeur.
Causes
The causes of depressive illness vary widely. A range of biological
and/or psychosocial factors may contribute. Some individuals may be more
vulnerable because of biological factors such as a genetic predisposition
and biochemical imbalances in the brain. Psychosocial causes include significant
loss (such as the death of a loved one), a lack of love and support, a
history of abuse and poor self-esteem. Drug and alcohol abuse may also
be a factor.
Research has indicated that higher depression levels are found amongst
the gay community compared to the general population. It has been shown
that the rejection and discrimination frequently experienced by gays can
lead to stress, depression and low self-esteem. Societal homophobia, isolation,
and feelings of self-hatred have also been highlighted as reasons for
high depression rates amongst gays.
Treatment
Depression is an illness and it can be treated. The most important treatment
methods are medication and counselling. Anti-depressants and antimanic
medications can be prescribed by GPs and psychiatrists.
While drugs may reduce the symptoms of depression, they do not tackle
the root causes. Psychotherapy can help depression sufferers to confront
their problems and learn coping skills to deal with life changes. It is
also important to involve partners or family members in therapy, as living
with a depressed person can in itself be highly stressful.
For details of gay-friendly counsellors, see our
Businesses page.
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