Depression
Depression is a common mental health issue that can cause serious medical illness. Depression, also known as major depression, major depressive disorder, or clinical depression, is a common but serious mood disorder. It negatively impacts how you feel, the way you think and how you manage daily activities.
You might be affected by depression if you are going through:
- Complicated bereavement.
- Intense life changes against your will such as job loss, family or relationship issues, financial or health issues, etc.
- Going through trauma or witnessing and supporting someone else going through trauma.
- Recurrent thoughts of dying or suicide, or attempt at suicide.
Impact on Life
Depression causes a persistent feeling of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. This can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability to function in normal day-to-day life.
Feelings of hopelessness with life in general, or having a low sense of self-worth, become intolerant towards others and become snappy.
A person with depression may also experience trouble sleeping, concentrating, and change in weight and energy level.
Management
Managing depression involves a combination of self-help strategies, talking therapies, and, in some cases, medication.
Self-help strategies include staying connected with others, being physically active, facing fears, maintaining a routine, and seeking professional help if symptoms persist.
Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and counselling are effective in treating depression, especially for mild to moderate cases. In more severe cases, antidepressant medication may be recommended in combination with talking therapy.