Depression is a prevalent mental disorder considered by the World Health Organization to be the leading non-fatal cause of disability. People diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) can experience lifetime disabilities. Depression is a chronic condition that affects both male and female. The heavy presence of continual sadness, hopelessness and loss of interest have contributed to individuals experiencing suicidal ideation and completed suicide.
This is what depression looks like: Intense feelings of sadness, emptiness or irritability accompanied by cognitive and physiological changes that significantly affect the way a person function day to day. A diagnosis of depression can include symptom duration of at least two weeks or longer in some cases. The two major underlying symptoms of depression is (1) depressed mood and (2) loss of interest of pleasure in things once enjoyed. Individuals can also experience significant weight loss or weight gain due to interruption in their regular dietary pattern. There is the possibility of sleep pattern interruption, i.e., oversleeping or trouble falling asleep daily. Some individuals report fatigue or loss of energy leaving them listless presenting as lazy. The is also feelings of worthlessness or excessive inappropriate guilt, diminished ability to think clearly or concentrate on matters of importance. Ultimately, but not necessary, individuals may experience suicidal ideation or have frequent thoughts about dying.
This is What Depression Looks Like:
You should be aware of these symptoms and how they can interfere with your day-to day functioning. When you notice these symptoms with yourself or with a close friend or family know that these symptoms are a signal for help.
The best solution for the treatment of depression is prevention. This could suggest simply by doing various stuff such as eating properly, taking some time out for yourself and your loved ones, making sure you have sufficient sleep, exercising, and avoiding certain individuals or situations or talking to a therapist.
With all of that said … it is by no means an exhaustive list. There are other actions you have to take to battle your depression and we may want to talk about those collectively. Now to my part …
So, you would possibly ask … How do we do those things when one is actively experiencing a depressive episode?
How do we manage a depressive episode if it occurs?
The answer is “YES”, you can make through the early morning, your workday, and your night. Life is a challenge, but depression does not have to be one. There is qualified help around you all you have to do is reach out. Hardly anything worth having is ever done alone. You are not alone.
If you are feeling any of these symptoms then it is time to get some help!!