Promoting Health in the Community - Essay Example

Rates for attempted suicide related to depression register at a rate of 0.3% for men and 0.5% for women (Commonwealth of Australia, 2009). These statistics in Australia are alarming which incidentally reflect similar rates in the global scene. To address the problems of depression in the country, causes, risk factors, and prevention in the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels will be discussed to include strategies to overcome some barriers. Causes of depression Depression is caused by various factors.

One is the cumulative negative life experiences such as violence, chronic poverty, divorce, and death (Burns, Andrews, & Szabo, 2002). In the same study, adversities experienced by individuals specifically in adolescents during their teen age years are identified as another cause. Teenagers with poor interpersonal skills and with negative thoughts result in peer relationship difficulties and in coping with family issues (Robinson, et.al. 2008). In addition, the individual’s cognitive qualities exert some influence into a person’s interpretation of negative life events. . Low self esteem is also considered a predictor of adolescent depression as reflected in their poor physical and academic performance in school.

Individuals with poor social skills are likely to develop symptoms of depression of particular concern are those experiencing difficulties in maintaining social relationship (Cole, et.al. 2001). Lastly, workplace stress is also related to high incidents of depression. Potential health outcomes Depression can lead to a variety of health outcomes. First, it can bring about physical symptoms such as increased blood pressure, heart rate, palpitation, and headache which may result to stroke or heart attacks if it persists (Horn and Miller, 2008).

Second, it alters the emotional aspect as evident in the person experiencing sadness, irritability, mood swings, and hostility. Next, it affects behaviour so that the person starts blaming others, becomes defensive among others. Eventually, it alters the cognitive dimension of the person predisposing him to poor memory, excessive daydreaming, trouble concentrating, and preoccupation. Prevention strategies Primary prevention Primary prevention involves reducing the incidences of the disorder to include modifying risk factors.

Initially, the individual should involve herself in sport activities of his interest. Such physical activity may not only maintain physical wellness but it diverts the brain from processing depressive thought (Weaver, 2009) and it also turn off the mind from boring daily routines. Another is to practice relaxation exercises like yoga, meditation, and listening to soft music since these may unwind and recharge the body and soul. Exercise for adult has become a part of community