Depression is a common mental disorder with a set of symptoms that affect a person's thoughts, feelings, behaviour, relationships, performance at work, and in very severe cases, may also lead to thoughts of suicide and death. It is all right to feel sad or upset over some unhappy events or circumstances. However, if this feeling persists for a long time (more than two weeks) or recurs frequently and disrupts normal life and health, then it could be a sign of clinical depression, which requires treatment. Depression is an illness like diabetes or heart problems. Depression can affect anyone at any juncture in their lifetime. Depression remains hidden most of the time because people hesitate to speak about it. Many of us just smile and refuse to share the problem for fear of being ridiculed or considered weak. The stigma associated with depression is a major obstacle that prevents people from seeking help. Without treatment, a person may suffer unnecessarily for a long time and also cause suffering to their family.
Due to lack of knowledge, many people are unable to identify the signs or know how to overcome depression. This results in a huge time-lapse before they even seek treatment which could aggravate the condition. For mild and moderate depression, self-help techniques, counseling or any therapy may be sufficient for recovery. It is only in severe depression that one would need treatment and medication.
As per the estimates of World Health organisation
Symptoms of Depression:
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Feeling low and sad most of the time.
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Loss of interest and difficulty in completing daily activities. Tiring easily and feeling a lack of energy through- out the day. Inability to enjoy things that you found interesting earlier.
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Difficulty in concentration, thinking or making decisions (example: hobbies, focusing on studies, etc.).
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Loss of self-confidence and self-esteem
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Negative thought about self, life and future
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Loss of appetite or overeating
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Feeling guilty and blaming oneself for past failures; feeling unworthy
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Frequently absent from work or being unable to work
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Feeling hopeless about the future
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Disturbed sleep or being unable to sleep
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Lack of interest in sex/sexual activity
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Experiencing body aches such as headaches, neck pain, or cramps
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Thoughts about self-harm, suicide or death.
People are diagnosed as suffering from depression only if they have more than five symptoms of depression during most times of the day over a two-week period. These symptoms must be severe enough to disrupt a person's daily activities either at work or at home. You can always help a person suffering from depression. However, it may be difficult to convince the person to accept the fact and seek help. Nevertheless, if you observe any of the depression symptoms mentioned above in someone you know, it is always good to encourage the person to consult a mental health expert.
Treatment for depression:
There are different ways in which depression can be treated. This depends on the severity of depression, health condition, and the patient's determination to recover soon. Some of the ways to treat depression are as under:
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Use of anti-depressants.
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Detection and treatment of co-existing medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders would help the person recover faster from depression.
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Various psychological therapies have also been found effective in treating depression. The patient can be taught relaxation techniques to increase positive thinking and improve coping skills. This can also be done through a host of therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, supportive therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and others.
Along with treatment or therapy, you need to take care of yourself. It may not be easy but small changes in your routine can have a positive outcome. Some of the steps to be taken by the persons suffering from depression are as under:
Break the cycle of negativity: One of the symptoms of depression is the constant feeling of guilt, worthlessness and being useless. Such thoughts need to be controlled and you need to be aware when such thoughts and feelings emerge. Try to recognize this pattern of negative thinking and replace it with positive or constructive thinking. If possible, make notes of such thoughts and see how you can replace them with happier thoughts and feelings.
Be active: Daily tasks and activities can be therapeutic.
Try to complete the daily tasks as much as possible. Set small and achievable goals and work on them. Take up some form of exercise. Research has proven that exercise helps the body and mind.
Face your fears: Usually, when people feel sad or anxious, they avoid talking to others or avoid tasks such as traveling, gardening, cooking, etc. It is best to face your fears and slowly continue with these tasks.
Plan your activities and daily routine: Since depression affects sleep patterns, try to get up at your normal time and sleep at the same time every night. Stick to the routine as much as possible.
Family support: Seek support from family members and friends. Take the required treatment or therapy regularly as prescribed by the doctor, which will help you recover sooner. Motivation and self-determination are the key factors to recover from depression.
— The author is Dy. Zonal Head, Dena Bank
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