We usually hear the word “depression” in our daily discussions. Every aspect of life can be affected by depression. It may be infrequent feelings of unhappiness or dissatisfaction. It’s a complex mental disorder. Millions of people are suffering from depression worldwide but they don’t know what they are suffering from.
“What depression is?” We hear a lot of things about it but actually, we don’t know what it is and how we can handle it or how we can recognize if we’re suffering from depression.
What is Depression?
First of all: if you’re feeling sad for a few days it does not mean you are depressed. Depression is not a short term, it’s a long term of hopelessness. It’s a mental illness that can cause a prolonged feeling of helplessness, hopelessness, dissatisfaction and disinterest in daily activities.
Everyone experiences suffering, sadness and down for a few days. But depression is the recurrent state of helplessness and it also has an impact on all aspects of your life such as social, physical, emotional, and mental state.Depression is a psychological disorder and it needs extra care and attention and the person who is experiencing it could fail to recognize it.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
It’s essential to recognize the symptoms if you are not sure that you may be experiencing depression. While depression appears in different forms, but common symptoms include:
- Chronic Melancholy:
A prolonged feeling of sadness or emptiness that is unable to see away is one of the main symptoms of depression. If you see everything around you is going well but you are feeling sad and helpless for a long time it may consist of months and years but you have no idea how you will get out of this feeling.
- Loss of Interest:
Activities whether they are hobbies, socializing, or any other that gave you pleasure once a time but now you don’t find any happiness in these activities. you are also unable to find joy in daily activities.
- Fatigue:
Depression can sap your energy. You are feeling physically and mentally tired even if you are not able to do any simple task like your routine work.
- Changes in Appetite or Weight:
Your diet may increase or decrease without any pathological reason. This result shows sudden loss or gain of weight. These changes are usually associated with your emotional state. It depends how you handle your emotions.
- Sleep Issues:
Sleep is also disturbed due to depression. you may experience insomnia (You can’t sleep) or hypersomnia (Too much sleep) but still feel tired or restless.
- Difficulty Concentrating:
Lack of concentration is also a sign of depression. Due to depression you are unable or face difficulties focusing, making decisions, remembering, or understanding anything. You may feel that you are not mentally where you are physically present which affects your working abilities.
- Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt:
Depressed people experience disability in themselves. you might feel that you are a failure or responsible for things that are uncontrollable for you.
- Suicidal Thoughts:
In severe cases, suicidal thoughts may arise. If you experience these feelings, It’s critical to connect with a professional psychologist. Suicide is not an acceptable option to solve your problems. And we are here to help you to get out of this depressive phase.
Causes of Depression
There is no specific cause of depression; it is a complex mental illness. Many factors contribute to developing it. Here are some:
- Biological Factors:
Chemical imbalance in the brain is interlinked with depression. Chemicals include serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These chemicals are essential for normal brain function, so the imbalance of these chemicals may aggravate depressive symptoms.
- Genetics:
Family history also has effects on your health whether it is physical or mental. If your family member is suffering from depression there is more risk for you of depression, unlike other people.
- Life Events:
The death of a loved one, a breakup, any serious disease like cancer, TB, etc, or any financial difficulties are examples of stressful or traumatic events that can trigger depression.
- Health Conditions:
Any chronic disease, pain, or any mental illness (like anxiety, PTSD, Schizophrenia) can lead to depression. Excessive use of medication may also result in depression.
How to deal with depression?
Remind yourself that you are not alone, depression is treatable, and there are some steps if you can follow these steps you can feel better.
- Talk to Someone You Trust
Talking to someone is the first and the most important step. You feel much better if you communicate with your close friend or relative. Don’t be shy to seek help with mental health experts such as counselors or therapists. They can provide you with a secure environment for you to share your feelings with them and help you to come out of this phase.
- Seek Professional Help
Therapy is an essential part of treating depression. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly helpful for guiding people to overcome unhealthy thought patterns. Doctors also prescribe medication such as antidepressants if it is necessary to balance the brain chemicals.
- Practice Self-Care:
Taking care of yourself is essential in depression. Make time for activities that make you happy and promote relaxation like reading, gardening, crafting , spending time in nature or any other activity.
- Exercise Regularly:
Exercise is one of the best techniques against depression. Physical activity increases endorphins (the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals) and improves overall mood. You can see the difference even with a 20-30 min walk every day.
- Eat Well and Stay Hydrated:
Your physical health is easily ignored due to depression. So make sure to balance food and water intake. It helps to enhance your mood and stamina.
- Avoid Alcohol and Drugs:
The use of alcohol and drugs is temporary relaxation, but long-term use of alcohol can worsen depression. If you are suffering from depression, stay away from these substances.
Conclusion
A depressive person can feel alone but it is important to remember that help is available and you are not alone to fight against depression. It’s totally up to you whether you choose therapy, medication, or self-care technique. Don’t hesitate to step forward to address your medical health. Your mental health is also as important as your physical health.
