Depression: Robert Enke's death shows - getting out of the taboo zone is not enough
The death of a famous German goalkeeper has sparked a debate about depression in professional sports. But what is depression? And how can it be treated?
Robert Enke was a German professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper. He played for several clubs in Germany, including Borussia Mönchengladbach, FC Barcelona, and Hannover 96. He also played for the German national team, making 8 international appearances.
Enke was diagnosed with depression in 2003. He underwent treatment for his condition, but he continued to suffer from depression. In 2009, Enke took his own life.
Enke's death shocked the world of football and sparked a debate about depression in professional sports. Many people were unaware that Enke was suffering from depression, and his death highlighted the fact that depression can affect anyone, regardless of their profession or success.
What is depression?
Depression is a mental illness that causes feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness. It can also lead to a loss of interest in activities that you once enjoyed, changes in appetite and sleep, and difficulty concentrating.
Depression is a serious illness, but it is treatable. There are a number of different treatments available for depression, including medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.
How can depression be treated?
The treatment for depression will vary depending on the individual. However, there are a number of different treatments that have been shown to be effective, including:
- Medication: There are a number of different types of medication that can be used to treat depression, including antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics.
- Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can help people to understand the causes of their depression and develop coping mechanisms.
- Lifestyle changes: Making healthy lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep, can also help to improve symptoms of depression.
Getting help for depression
If you think that you may be suffering from depression, it is important to seek help. There are a number of different resources available to you, including:
- Your doctor: Your doctor can diagnose depression and prescribe medication if necessary.
- Mental health professional: A mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can provide psychotherapy and other treatment options.
- Support groups: Support groups can provide you with a safe and supportive environment to share your experiences and learn from others who are also struggling with depression.
Conclusion
Depression is a serious illness, but it is treatable. If you think that you may be suffering from depression, it is important to seek help. There are a number of different resources available to you, and with the right treatment, you can recover from depression and live a full and happy life.