Stressed? This could lead to depression, mental disorders

Depressive disorder is the most common health problem in the UAE. Although no exact data is available in the country, it is estimated that 17.7 per cent of the population in the Arab World suffers from depression.

And this figure is only the tip of the iceberg because not everyone with mental health problems comes forward and seeks treatment due to the stigma associated with mental health diseases, said Afaf Al Hashemi, family physician at Nad Al Sheba primary health care centre.

Mental health was the topic of discussion in the weekly Twitter clinic of Dubai Health Authority (DHA), marking World Mental Health Day (October 10).

Mental health problems have moved up the UAE chart of epidemiological health problems significantly in recent years. With depressive disorders topping the list, anxiety disorders have moved up from 13th to 7th most common health problem. Drug use disorders were ranked 12th in 1990, while it was ranked 5th in 2010.

“This is a global issue and its one the biggest challenges mental healthcare professionals face because stigma leads to delayed treatment, deterioration of  the condition, self-worthlessness, self-stigma, low confidence, low self-esteem, withdrawal and social isolation,” said al Hashemi.

“In the UAE, an increase in awareness over the years has resulted in lower levels of stigma associated with the disease, however, we still have a long way to go because at the end of the day it is our aim as healthcare professionals to have a society free from stigma that treats every person with mental health disorders as an individual.”

Everyone feels sad from time to time as a result of the ups and downs of life, pointed out Shamsa Al Suwaidi, family physician at Al Badaa primary healthcare centre.

“However, if emptiness has taken hold of your life and won't go away, you may have depression.”

Signs of depression include feeling hopeless and helpless, loss of interest in friends, activities, and things you used to enjoy, constant tiredness, change in sleep and weight, lack of concentration, negative thoughts, increased irritability, short-temperedness, or aggressive behaviour, the physician pointed out.

“Depression makes it tough to function and carry out day-to-day activities. Understanding the signs, symptoms, causes, and treatment of depression is the first step to overcoming the problem.”

Stress associated with modern lifestyle has been linked to the rise in depression levels globally as prolonged stress is known to trigger depression, said the DHA.

“Psychiatrists know that stress can trigger mental disorders. Problems arise when the stress response does not switch off.  Stress-hormone levels that stay too high for too long cause high blood pressure and suppress the immune system. Studies have proven that severe or prolonged stress also raises the risk of psychiatric disease.”

Al Hashemi added that fast-paced modern day lives can lead to a burnout which is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.

She added that in such cases it is important to either take a break or change your environment.

(Image via Shutterstock)

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