How Are People Affected by Depression Socially?

According to the New York State Office of Mental Health, approximately 18.8 million Americans suffer from the effects of depression every year. The social effects of depression can be devastating to its victims.

• Depression

Isolation

• Many depressed people become withdrawn and isolate themselves from friends and family. This isolation only adds to the feelings of being alone.

Work Problems

• Difficulty concentrating is a symptom of depression and can lead to difficulty in performing necessary tasks at the workplace.

Marriage Difficulties

• Symptoms of depression can impair the individual's relationships, particularly with a spouse. Dealing with a depressed spouse can put a strain on the marriage.

Substance Abuse

• In an effort to relieve the symptoms of depression, many sufferers turn to alcohol or drugs. These addictions are difficult for the depressed individual to combat and often require treatment by a mental health professional.

Health Problems

• Depression can lead to other health problems such as an increase in heart disease, reproductive disorders and headaches. Dealing with the added physical ailments further impairs the depressed individual's ability to function normally in social situations.