Depression

Depression – so negative, so gloomy, so shameful topic – thoughts which may have surely struck you on reading the first word. Do we honestly form such perceptions when talking about a physical illness? So why such partiality with mental illness?

According to Google, “Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.” Simple, isn’t it, so why to complicate matters and make it so hideous. When you get fever or cold, you consult a doctor and get cured. Same should be done with mental health.

Problem arises when you know are depressed, you show symptoms, but you can’t do anything about it. You share the crisis with your closed ones and you’re told it’s nothing. It’s like you tell someone you’ve a chest pain, you are sweating and feeling tired, and you are told it’s nothing. Next moment you know, you have Blood Pressure, if left untreated. Same goes with mental health. If left as it is, it can be dangerous.

The main issue is that it is never taken seriously. One word I personally hate when discussing this topic is Overthinking. Who likes to Overthink matters and make already stressful life more stressed. Yes, we tend to analyse certain circumstances at times to a somewhat greater length than is necessary, but no one wants to sacrifice his/her happiness for this. What do people think, that people suffering from depression voluntarily want to feel all those things that arise from what you simply call Overthinking?

It’s very true that everyone has some or the other time faced vexation. But not everyone has the same emotional patience level, nor does everyone’s way of dealing with the hassles. Some want to things to be done sturdily while some quietly. Some are expressive while some are secretive. We should respect everyone nevertheless.

One thing should never ever be done with a depressed person. When he/she reaches you for help, don’t avoid them. Schedule a time and just listen to what they have to say. Look out for the following alarming symptoms –

•Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness
•Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters
•Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports
•Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
•Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort
•Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
•Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
•Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame
•Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
•Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
•Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches

Believe me, it’s very difficult to function when in depression and more when you feel you can’t do anything about it, merely because what others will think. Look out for those coming to you before it’s too late. You would never like to loose someone close to you to heart-attack na, so why let him/her succumb to depression. Stand by them, assure them that it may seem so, but they aren’t alone and there’s a good coming out after all the shady clouds. As doubtful as it may appear, but maintaining positivity for a depressed person is next to impossible, that’s the reason they ask for your help. Make them realise of their strengths and their potentials, tell them they’re special and even if they need to consult an expert, there’s no shame in doing so. Life is really beautiful and joy is all around you, it’s just that sometimes you have to do the treasure hunt.