Can Depression Kill You?

If You Need Immediate Help

If you or someone you know is in immediate distress and may be at risk of self-harm or suicide, it’s essential to seek help immediately. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out to these resources, share your concerns with friends or family, and seek professional help. Your well-being is paramount, and people and organizations are dedicated to helping you during difficult times.

There are several resources available to provide immediate assistance and support:

• 988 or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: In the United States, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). This 24/7 helpline offers confidential support from trained professionals who can provide guidance and connect you with local resources.
• Crisis Text Line: You can also text “HOME” to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line, which provides confidential support via text messaging for individuals in crisis.
• Emergency Services: If there is an immediate threat to life, do not hesitate to call 911 or your local emergency number.

Can Depression Kill You?

Untreated depression can have severe consequences.¹ The emotional pain and hopelessness associated with depression can elevate the risk of self-harm and suicide. One study found that up to 50% of individuals who complete suicide also met the criteria for a depression diagnosis.² Moreover, the physical toll of depression can weaken the immune system, exacerbate existing health conditions, and contribute to a higher mortality risk.

Here are six of the most severe risks of depression:

1. Suicide

Depression is a significant risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviors due to the emotional pain and feelings of hopelessness experienced by individuals. While not everyone with depression experiences suicidal thoughts, it is a significant and critical concern.³ This highlights the importance of early intervention, professional treatment, and a strong support system to address depression effectively and reduce the risk of suicide.

How to Protect Yourself From Suicide When Depressed

If you or someone you know is facing the risk of suicide due to depression, taking proactive steps to ensure safety is crucial. Seek professional help by finding a therapist or finding a psychiatrist who can provide personalized treatment and support. Don’t hesitate to talk with trusted friends and family members; isolation can worsen depression, so connecting with others is essential.

Learn and apply healthy coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation, and stress management, to better navigate emotional distress. If a healthcare provider prescribes medication, use it as directed to help stabilize mood and minimize the risk of self-harm. Work with a therapist to create a safety plan, including emergency contacts and strategies to use during crises. Finally, ensure any potentially harmful objects or substances are not easily accessible to create a safer environment.

2. Self-Medicating

In an attempt to alleviate the overwhelming emotional pain, some individuals turn to self-medicating their depression with alcohol or drugs. This coping strategy is troublesome as it not only fails to address the root causes of depression but also introduces new health risks.

Substance misuse can lead to substance abuse or addiction, exacerbate depression, and even result in overdose or other life-threatening complications. It’s important to recognize the dangers of self-medicating and seek professional help instead, as addressing depression through healthy means is essential for long-term well-being and reducing the risk of mortality.

Here are some ways to protect yourself from self-medicating when depressed:

• Seek guidance from a mental health professional who can offer appropriate treatment
• Identify the situations or emotions that trigger the need to self-medicate
• Develop healthy coping strategies to manage these triggers effectively
• Restrict access to substances that may be used for self-medication, such as alcohol or prescription medications
• Replace self-medicating behaviors with positive activities that foster well-being, such as exercise, engaging in hobbies, or practicing mindfulness.

3. Physical Complications

Depression doesn’t just affect mental health; it can also have an impact on your physical well-being. Prolonged depression can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Moreover, it’s been linked to an increased risk of heart disease due to factors like inflammation and high-stress levels. Additionally, depression can exacerbate existing health conditions, such as diabetes or respiratory disorders, potentially leading to fatal complications.

Here are some ways to protect yourself from physical complications when depressed:

• Seek consultation with a healthcare provider to address both the mental and physical dimensions of depression.
• Establish a health-conscious lifestyle by incorporating regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate sleep
• Using stress-reduction practices like mindfulness, meditation, or yoga in your routine can reduce the risk of heart disease and other related concerns.

4. Substance Abuse

Depression often pushes individuals to seek relief from their emotional pain through self-destructive means, such as substance abuse. Alcohol, in particular, is commonly abused by people with depression as it can provide temporary relief. Substance abuse not only exacerbates the symptoms of depression but also increases the risk of accidents, overdose, and other life-threatening consequences.

Here are some ways to protect yourself from substance abuse when depressed:

• Collaborating with addiction specialists and mental health professionals to craft a personalized recovery plan that addresses both depression and substance abuse
• Form connections with support groups or trusted loved ones who can provide emotional support and motivation
• Develop constructive coping skills for managing emotional distress, such as mindfulness and stress management techniques.
• Restrict access to potentially harmful substances and steer clear of environments or individuals that might trigger substance use.

5. Physical Neglect

Depression can manifest as physical self-neglect, where individuals may struggle to complete even basic daily tasks, including proper self-care or difficulty getting out of bed. This self-neglect can extend to the management of chronic health conditions like diabetes or hypertension. Depressed individuals may find it challenging to adhere to medication regimens, maintain healthy diets, or monitor their vital signs regularly. Such self-neglect can exacerbate these underlying conditions, increasing the risk of life-threatening complications.

Here are some ways to protect yourself from physical neglect when depressed:

• Seek guidance from a healthcare provider capable of addressing both depression and chronic conditions
• Establish a structured daily routine incorporating self-care practices, including medication adherence, monitoring vital signs, and a balanced diet.
• Engage the assistance of trusted family members or friends to help you stay committed to your health-related responsibilities
• Educate yourself about the potential repercussions of neglecting chronic conditions, motivating you to prioritize your health

6. Stress

Depression’s impact on life expectancy can be partly understood through its influence on stress hormones, particularly cortisol. Depression can increase stress through several mechanisms. Research studies show that depression is strongly correlated with elevations in cortisol levels. The cortisol awakening response, which is an increase in this stress hormone level in the morning, can vary.⁴

When stress increases, so do our cortisol levels. Prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels can result in various physiological changes, including inflammation, compromised immune function, and increased cardiovascular risk. These factors collectively contribute to a higher susceptibility to chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes, which can ultimately reduce life expectancy.

Here are some ways to protect yourself from stress when depressed:

• Prioritize stress management techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or yoga
• Incorporate regular physical activity to lower cortisol levels
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in whole foods to manage cortisol levels
• Explore therapeutic approaches or medication that can assist in regulating cortisol levels effectively.

How Can I Tell When Depression Is Dangerous?

Common signs that depression is becoming dangerous include suicidal ideation, social isolation, and changes in eating and sleep patterns. Prompt recognition of these signs allows for timely professional help and support, reducing the risk of life-threatening consequences associated with severe depression. Encouraging open communication and seeking help when needed can make all the difference in an individual’s journey towards recovery and well-being.

Acute symptoms and warning signs that suggest depression is getting harmful level:

• Suicidal ideation
• Significant changes in weight and sleep patterns
• Social isolation
• Excessive sleep or insomnia
• Slowed physical movements or restlessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyable activities
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Physical aches or illnesses
• Self-neglect
• Intense emotional suffering

How to Prevent Depression From Killing You

Preventing depression from getting worse and becoming a life-threatening condition starts with seeking treatment promptly and consistently. Early intervention can help individuals manage their depression effectively before it reaches a life-threatening stage. Professional treatment for depression can provide the necessary skills to cope with depression. Establishing a support system of friends, family, and mental health professionals is equally vital.

A comprehensive treatment plan for depression involves:

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy offers various approaches to help individuals manage depression. Some examples include psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy, to name a few. These therapies provide a safe space to explore feelings, gain insight into one’s condition, and develop effective coping strategies.

Effective therapy options for depression include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT for depression focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with depression. It helps individuals develop healthier thinking patterns and coping strategies. CBT is available online and in person.
• Interpersonal therapy (IPT): IPT concentrates on improving interpersonal relationships and addressing social issues that may contribute to depression, such as conflicts or life changes.
• Psychodynamic therapy: Psychodynamic therapy explores unconscious factors that may underlie depressive symptoms, helping individuals gain insight into unresolved issues and emotions.
• Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT): MBCT combines elements of CBT with mindfulness techniques. It teaches individuals to be more present and aware of their thoughts and feelings, reducing the risk of relapse.
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Originally developed for borderline personality disorder, DBT can also be effective for depression. DBT for depression teaches emotional regulation and coping skills while combining mindfulness and CBT.
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): ACT encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings while focusing on actions aligned with their values, promoting psychological flexibility.
• Behavioral activation: Behavioral activation, also referred to as activity scheduling, emphasizes increasing engagement in positive and meaningful activities to combat the effects of depression and restore a sense of satisfaction and pleasure in life.
• Group therapy: Participating in group therapy sessions with others experiencing depression can provide a sense of support, shared experiences, and valuable insights. Although often in-person, online group therapy is available for individuals who struggle to get out of their house due to depression.

Medication

Antidepressant medications can help in the treatment of depression by helping to balance neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. These medications can alleviate symptoms of depression, making it more manageable for individuals. While antidepressants are not a “quick fix,” they are a tool that works gradually over several weeks, especially alongside therapy.

Following prescribed treatment plans, including taking medication as directed and attending regular check-ups with a healthcare provider, is important for their effectiveness. Discontinuing medication abruptly or without medical guidance can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a potential relapse of depression. Maintaining open communication with a healthcare professional will help to monitor progress, adjust medication if needed, and ensure the best possible outcome in managing depression.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to therapy and medication, lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on managing depression. Regular exercise reduces depressive symptoms by releasing endorphins, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being. A balanced diet with nutrient-rich foods can help ease depression by supporting brain function and emotional stability.

Developing and maintaining a sleep routine is valuable, as sleep deprivation can increase depressive symptoms. Mindfulness practices, including meditation for depression and deep breathing exercises, help individuals cultivate self-awareness, reduce stress, and enhance emotional regulation. Combining these lifestyle changes with other treatments can create a holistic approach to managing depression, promoting better mental health and overall quality of life.

How to Overcome Barriers to Treating Depression

A primary barrier to seeking treatment for depression is mental health stigma. Stigma, especially prevalent for men with depression, often leads to feelings of shame and embarrassment, preventing open conversations about mental health. To overcome this, we must normalize discussions about depression, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Another primary barrier to receiving treatment for depression is limited access to care. Therapy can be expensive, making it a luxury many cannot afford. Additionally, individuals in more remote areas may not be able to find a therapist in their area. Online therapy platforms make therapy easier to access because they provide therapists at many different pay brackets who provide therapy virtually. Additionally, some insurances cover therapy, so checking with one’s insurance is important.

How to Find Professional Support

Finding professional help for depression is a pivotal step on the path to recovery. Research mental health professionals in your vicinity by utilizing our online therapist directory to discover therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. When doing research, ensure these professionals are trained in treating depression and are knowledgeable about your needs. If you’re ready to begin online therapy, Talkspace is an excellent choice for those with insurance. If you do not have insurance, there are several online therapy options to choose from, with one of the most accessible options being BetterHelp.

For those seeking medication management to address depression, consider using an online psychiatrist service. Many online platforms now offer virtual psychiatric appointments, providing a seamless solution for prescription and medication management. However, it is important to note that if you are experiencing severe depression and suicidal thoughts, providers may prefer to see you in person.