Title

LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF DARKNESS: YOUNG ADULTS’ LIVED EXPERIENCES OF DEPRESSION

Author(s)

JOSHUA A. BAITAN

GAEBRIELLE NICOLE V. GALLENERO

JEMARIE A. RAGPALA

ARGIE MAE M. VALLEGA

ALYSSA BIANCA P. WATE

Affiliation

Misamis University

Degree Program

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Contributor

Taghoy, Sammy B.

Tabanao, Rojaida S.

Gomez, Grethel A.

Mutia, Maricar M.

Year

2023

Abstract

Depression is a state of mental illness and one of the most common mental illnesses in the world that affects the way people think, feel and act. It results from a complex interaction of social, psychological, and biological factors. Depression is a more serious problem for young adults than for other adults - one out of every 10 young adults. This descriptive phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of depression among young adults in Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental, Philippines. Snowball sampling was used to select for the target participants which included three young adults (ages 21-25) who were diagnosed with depression. Interviews were utilized to explore the experiences of depression from the three young adults diagnosed with depression and data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s method of data analysis. Living in the shadow of darkness emerged as the essence of the young adults’ experiences and ultimately defined what it was like to live with depression. This essence was supported by four themes: ‘social isolation’, ‘suicidal thoughts and self-harm’, ‘emotional distress’, and ‘coping strategies.’ By recognizing the impact of depression on cognitive, behavioral, and emotional aspects of their lives, healthcare providers may work towards creating a more empathetic and supportive environment that fosters resilience and mental well-being for young adults struggling with depression.

Keywords

coping strategies, depression, emotional distress, social isolation, suicidal thoughts and self-harm, young adults