Depression... Let's talk.

Depression, Let's talk..

World health organization (WHO) has chosen to fight against Depression for 2017. The battle kicked off on 7th April 2017 and we celebrated World Health Day with a slogan ‘Depression, Let's talk.’ This campaign will continue through out the year and various aspects regarding depression will be considered. The goal is to reach out as much population as possible and create awareness about Depression.

What is Depression??

Depression is not a disease, it is a psychological illness. It is characterized by persistent feeling of sadness and lack of interest in normal activities. A Person suffering from depression may show following symptoms

• Loss of energy
• Change in appetite. (Either increase or Loss of appetite)
• Change i sleep patterns (reduced or aggravated)
• Mood swings and anxiety
• Loss of concentration
• Indecisiveness
• Feeling of worthlessness,guilt or helplessness
• Thoughts of self harm or even suicide.

Who can be suffering?

• Depression affects people of all ages-class, from all walks of life and in all countries. Nowadays life has become very fast and competitive. This hustle and competitiveness are taking its toll on our life. As a result of this, number of people suffering from depression and/or anxiety has been increased by nearly 50% during past decades. Currently almost 10% of the population is affected by either or both of the conditions.
• Financial worries, unemployment, death or illness of dear ones, own illness, professional failures, competitive and demanding nature of academics or profession can cause depression.
• Also cases of depression during pregnancy or Post partum depression(ie after delivery up to two years) are increasing nowadays.
• failure in relationships - break up or divorces
• alcoholism or drug addiction
• Also older adults (over 60s)

Effects of depression on life -

• Depression causes mental anguish. persistent feeling of sadness affects person’s routine. He/she may not wish doing everyday chores or even enjoy their favorite things.
• This affects their work
• It sometimes also has negative impact on their relationships with friends and family members as well.
• Depression during pregnancy or post partum (after delivery upto two years) can affect development of foetus or newborns.
• Depression may also lead to development of type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disorders also these diseases may also be a cause of depression.

How to treat Depression?

• Depression can be treated easily and effectively. But for that we need to clear out all the misconceptions and overcome the stigma associated with depression.

• This will help people from coming out of shadow and seek treatment.
• Most often treatment involves counselling and medical treatment, depending on the severity.
• Counselling is the first step. A person suffering from any of the symptoms should make it known. It could be anyone,your friend-family-relative. Anyone who can understand and is trustworthy. Talking to people you trust can be a first step towards recovery. Mild depression can be treated by such informal counselling.
• If needed, one should seek professional help. A Good counselor can understand your problems and help you to deal with it.
• Moderate to severe cases may also need combination therapy of counselling and antidepressants.
• Always make advance planning for your stress
• And prepare your mind and body for unexpected stressful situations. Meditation has proven helpful in such situations.
• indulging into some hobbies and cultivating interests can help to take mind off difficult situations.
• Also even if you are not suffering from depression but if you see someone from your family, friends or colleagues are suffering from, please make your that you offer a support. Cause sometimes it is just a helping hand that does the trick.

So Let's talk……..

Ref. World Health organization

Picture courtesy : World Health Organization.