DEALING WITH DEPRESSION

DEALING WITH DEPRESSION

I AM SINKING, I NEED HELP

Debby took another glance at Lizzy sitting some meters away and wondered why she looked so dejected and distracted this morning.  “This is not the Lizzy I know” she muttered under her breath. “What could be wrong with her?” She is married with three kids. Her husband is an IT professional in a blue-chip organization. There is little doubt that life is smiling on her but this morning, she looks forlorn and distressed. Debby faced her duties but still glanced at Lizzy from time to time. “I need to ask what could be wrong with her during our break time,” Debby told herself.

As break time approached Debby noticed that Lizzy stood up, stretched herself with a low growl, and went straight to the convenience facility. She waited for Lizzy to step out and approached her. “Lizzy, I have been watching you since morning, it seems you have something bothering you. You have not been yourself. What is happening?” She gently enquired. Without mincing words, “I am sinking and I don’t know what to do” Lizzy retorted with bleary eyes.

WHAT IS DEPRESSION

Depression is a typical mood disorder that is prevalent in our society. Unfortunately, there is low awareness of this mental health challenge  coupled with unhealthy stigmatization when a person displays the symptoms. 

Depression is characterised by feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed. It may also be accompanied by loss of appetite or increased appetite. Other symptoms include having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much. There could be a general loss of energy and increased fatigue, purposeless activities or a feeling of worthlessness and hopelessness. There could be difficulty in thinking, concentrating or making decisions. This feeling may lead to thoughts of death or suicide. When anyone shows any of these symptoms continuously for two weeks, there is a concern to suspect depression. Some medical conditions can also predispose a person to depression such as thyroid problems, brain tumors or vitamin deficiency.

DEPRESSION IS NOT SADNESS OR GRIEF

There is a huge difference between depression and sadness or grief.  The loss of a partner, a job or termination of a relationship or failure in an examination can cause a lot of pain and distress but feelings of sadness as a result of any of these cannot be described as depression. It is normal to experience some emotional pains as a result of a loss or disappointment but when such a feeling persists for as long as two weeks, intervention would be necessary because this could point toward depression.

FACTORS THAT MAY PREDISPOSE A PERSON TO DEPRESSION

Depression can affect anyone even if one lives in the most ideal circumstances. However, it is necessary to watch out for factors that may predispose a person to depression. Research has established that depression can run in families. So if you have a family member who has depression, you have to watch out for symptoms of depression. 

Secondly, people with low self-esteem or who are generally pessimistic can be easily overwhelmed by stress and challenges of life which reduces their life coping capacity. Environmental factors such as poverty, neglect, abuse or continuous exposure to violence may make some people susceptible to depression. 

Lastly, differences in certain hormones in the brain may also contribute to symptoms of depression.

DEPRESSION CAN BE TREATED

Depression is a mental disorder that can be easily treated. Between 80 to 90 percent of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment. It is not something to hide from or pretend it is not there. There are diagnostic evaluations, including an interview and a physical examination which must be done by a professional counsellor who specializes in mental health. Psychotherapy is usually employed to treat mild depression. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is also employed to identify distorted or negative thinking with the goal of changing thoughts and behaviours to respond to life’s challenges in a more positive manner. 

Where medical intervention is required, a patient would be referred to a psychiatrist who has the knowledge and skill to prescribe drugs for depression.

Several self-help activities can help reduce the symptoms of depression such as regular exercise, getting enough quality sleep, eating a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol and developing a healthy and positive attitude to life.

Finally, please note that if you are depressed, self-harm is not the solution. Rather, please ask for help.

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