What is depression?
Depression ranks second to the most common chronic medical illnesses, while it ranks #1 in the most common mental conditions.
Depression is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in the world. It is a mental condition that completely alters the mood and outlook in life of a person. In depression, the main goal is to escape the problem by thinking of death as the only way to end it all.
What causes depression?
Genetics – parents or relatives with mental illnesses will have a chance of passing this to their children, because depression can be inherited.
Drug or alcohol abuse – drugs and alcohol can alter mental stability of a person that causes depression and other illnesses.
Poor problem solving skills – if a person has the inability to decide for himself and problems arise, his/her coping may be affected and thus lead to depression.
Social factors – such as traumatic conditions (rape, war and calamities), and being bullied in school or workplace.
Medical or biological factors – chronic or long term illnesses can lead to depression. Loss of an arm or leg or any body functions is also another cause.
How is depression diagnosed?
Lack or too much of sleep – family members or friends of the affected person may observe that he/she is sleeping more than ever, or not being able to sleep at all.
Mood changes – feelings of wanting to die and being unable to make decisions.
Lack of energy – unable to perform daily routines such as going to work and other activities of daily living such as bathing, reading a book, and no energy for the activities the person used to love.
Low self esteem – poor eye contact, avoiding conversations and has a low self confidence.
Poor diet – characterized by being unable to eat or eating excessively. There can be signs of weight loss or gain.
Inducing harm – attempting suicide and inflicting pain to oneself (wounds or cuts on the body may be seen).
What are the ways to overcome depression?
Antidepressant medications – are prescribed by the Psychiatrist to stabilize the mood and regain normal sleeping patterns.
Emotional support – surround yourself with the happy people and the people you love like your family and friends. Professional support can also be provided by a Psychotherapist or psychiatrist.
Activities – a way of being entertained and diverted by doing something fun like sports, watching a movie, and being around friends or support groups.
Get some sun – get out of the dark and be exposed to the sun and well-lit places to boost the mood.
Eating healthy foods – for the purpose of receiving sufficient vitamins and minerals, as well as to normalize body weight and body system functions.
Degrees of depression vary from one person to the other. Some people can conquer this situation on their own, while seeking medical help is also recommended.