About 5% of adults globally have depression. 280 million people worldwide live with depression. 20.78% of US adults (50 million) live with mental illness. 21 million US adults (8.4%) have experienced major depressive episode
Mood tracker apps help monitor and track mental health patterns. Apps cannot diagnose disorders but complement professional care. Most apps are free with premium features available
Stigma is a negative attitude about people based on mental, physical, or social features. Three main types: mental health, physical deformation, and social identity stigma. Stigma can be subtle or obvious, like jokes about conditions
Spend time outdoors and engage in public activities. Initiate small talk with strangers to build social skills. Join local groups or meetups to meet new people. Reach out to trusted friends and family, even if distant. Volunteer at organizations that serve others
Social isolation involves being cut off from contact with others. Extended isolation harms mental and physical well-being. Social isolation increases risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Isolation linked to higher risk of heart disease and weakened immunity
Sadness can be a sign of depression but doesn't always indicate it. Depression and sadness can occur suddenly or gradually. Feeling sad alone doesn't necessarily mean depression