The terminology used to describe depression is an attempt to convey its nature as accurately as possible. However, capturing complex mental phenomena in words is difficult, and nomenclature can evolve as science develops, as well as change for social reasons. The choice of words represents not only knowledge, but also the approach to the subject. How we talk about depression shapes the way society perceives it, and the attitudes and actions toward its symptoms.
Depression as a disorder
According to the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, abbreviated ICD, in both the ICD-10 revision and the latest ICD-11, depression belongs to mood disorders, falling under the group of mental disorders. This classification organizes, facilitates diagnosis and communication between specialists, but is still a certain simplification of multidimensional health problems. The term “depression” refers to various forms of the disorder with varying degrees of severity. Indeed, the symptoms of depression disrupt the overall emotional state and consequently interfere with the way we function. Depression involves persistent abnormalities in mental functioning that interfere with the ability to cope with everyday life. The disorder does not have a single identifiable cause; as with diseases, depression emphasizes its complex biopsychosocial background. The causes and risk factors for depression come from different areas, so depression is an interdisciplinary issue, and its treatment should also be holistic, taking into account the various therapies available. VR TierOne therapy can be an effective support for the holistic treatment of depression. Modern VR therapy helps break the taboo of psychotherapy, and fits in well with efforts to make treatment more universal. Disorder is a broader and less loaded concept than mental illness, which can suggest irreversibility and even evoke fear and negative associations. This has a twofold implication – on the one hand, a disorder is perhaps less stigmatizing; on the other hand, awareness of depression as a mood disorder can capture the importance of the problem and lead to downplaying it.
Illness in relation to depression
The concept of disease does not have a single definition, which just goes to show that this condition (or process, as some want to call it) is not easily wrapped up in words. The biomedical definition assumes that the disease must have a biological clear cause. Although depression is not a disease in the traditional sense, since no single cause can be identified, it is not wrong to call depression a disease, although it is not entirely accurate. Depression has some characteristics of a disease, it can seriously and visibly affect the functioning of the body, it can be diagnosed, it can shorten life and it can be treated. Calling depression a disease may emphasize its biological basis, meaning genetic predisposition, changes in neurotransmitter function and changes in brain structures. The use of the term disease in relation to depression is sometimes useful, it counteracts the contestation of depression, and can change the perspective on taking treatment. Moreover, if illness is understood broadly as a deviation from full health (well-being) and as a condition requiring intervention, then depression is it. This framing helps to sound out that depression requires treatment, and that untreated depression can lead to severe consequences.
Recognizing depression as an illness can have positive effects – it justifies treatment, helps to obtain support and conditions for recovery (e.g. sick leave from work). The term “illness” prompts one to take the situation seriously, and can also generate a moral obligation to help the ill person. It is worth noting, however, that the term “mental illness” exposes one to labeling and stigma. Potentially negative consequences also apply to the term “serious illness” vis-à-vis depression. It can evoke a sense of no chance to change the situation and recover, and is associated with a lack of hope, which exacerbates feelings of helplessness. Words can have the power to influence how society perceives people with depression, as well as how people perceive their situation.
Conscious choice of nomenclature
The culture of immediacy demands clear and short answers to make sense of reality. Unfortunately, in short messages, complex topics are usually made shallow, and this is also the case with the topic of depression. The popular reduction of depression to sadness does not show its multifaceted nature, and the same may be true of the nomenclature of what depression is. Defining depression as a disorder or disease can depend on the purpose, intention or circumstances. Sometimes the terms are used interchangeably to deliberately accentuate selected aspects of this complex phenomenon. Regardless of which term one uses for depression, it is important to remember that it is an undesirable condition that can be serious, life-threatening, but changeable! Linguistic sensitivity, appropriate choice of terms to describe depression does not change the situation directly, but it helps to overcome shame and encourages therapy. Responsible narration helps fight stigma, counteracts the perpetuation of stereotypes, and does not lead to deepening feelings of shame and guilt in those struggling with the problem. Linguistic care in the social discourse on the topic of depression should focus on respect for the person who is experiencing difficulties. The debate about depression should raise awareness, promote treatment options and support options for a realistic chance of recovery, which we do by sharing knowledge about depression on the VR TierOne blog.
