Depression by Samah Ayana Kabir

Often we find ourselves feeling blue and out of place. The term we use to describe it is usually “Depression”. This is, however, way more complex than a simple feeling of sadness. According to WHO, around 240 million of all age groups suffer from depression. The age group of 18-25 are said to be the most depressed age group. As it goes along, like slow poisoning the intensity of this mental illness increases, and often evolves into serious health issues. The most catastrophic consequence of depression is suicide, and 800,000 people are said to lose their lives at the hands of suicide(WHO).

Now that we recognizethatthefactthat depression indeed is a

disastrous illness, we must know a few ofthe symptoms to help

ourselves get the cure, even more, it can take over. They

include:

·A continued pattern oflow mood,hopelessness and guilt

·Disruption in sleep patterns- sleeping excessively or

insomnia

·Changes in appetitepatterns

·Loss of concentration and motivation on formerly

interesting things

·Fatigue or fidgety

·Having low self-esteem and facing problems making a decision

·Feeling tearful and irritated

·Anxiety/Panic attacks or Hallucinations

·Self-harm and suicidalplans or behaviour (Extreme cases)

These are some common symptoms of depression. Now the question comes, what we can do if we have come across such signs.The foremost measure is to have a good conversation with someone with whom we are comfortable. Often letting things out,helps an easy cure to such problems in the initial stages. Distraction sounds difficult but is an effective way to escape. Try setting goals for yourself, and try to excel in a skill that shall give you a sense of self-accomplishment. Alongside, make attempts to maintain a proper sleep schedule, as staying up at lat nights or sleeping too much just adds fuel to the fire, and try to eat right. Engage in activities which keep your mind focused at all times, could be exercise or anything. Writing away your feeling can also be an effective way, as we can express our feelings in their raw shape in extreme situations, the only option remains psychotherapy and medication. Therefore, it is a lesson to carry forward that, if we notice such signs coming out, seeking help should be an immediate action rather than waiting for someone else to realize.

After all, self-helpis thebesthelp

References:

https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/topics/live

well/2017/05/7-ways-to-overcome-depression-without-medication/ https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression