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Thinks Too Much
A person complains of too many confusing thoughts and shows no willingness to work.
Reality
This stream of thought is beyond the control of one suffering from depression.
Talking Makes It Worse
Friends and family members behave as if nothing has happened.
Reality
A close family member or friend can help a depressed person by allowing him to open-up and recover faster
How to recognise depression?
There is a long list of symptoms which will differ from person to person. Also the intensity will vary in different episodes. Not all of them will be present in any one episode. In our culture physical symptoms are more accepted than emotional symptoms and often manifest themselves as tiredness, fatigue and low energy levels. Outlined below are some of the other common ones. Understanding the symptoms will help a depressed person cope with the condition better. Also this will help people around understand and provide the needed support.
This type of depression occurs generally after a major disappointment or the death of significant person.
At such times a person may:
- have a tendency to cry uncontrollably
- have loss of appetite
- lose interest in hobbies, children, sex, etc.
Moderate Depression
In this type of depression a person feels that everything around them is in a mess.
- They cannot enjoy the company of friends.
- Feel guilty and useless.
- Feel low in energy which may results in reduced productivity.
Severe Depression
People suffering from this type of depression feel that their world is coming is to an end. They may no longer be able to cope with their day to day activities. They avoid people and people avoid them. They often contemplate suicide. Such persons should be given professional help at the earliest. Watch Out
(if 5 or more of the following are present)
- Change in appetite or weight.
- Loss of energy or weariness.
- Loss of interest in usual activities.
- Inability to concentrate or make decisions.
- Change in sleep pattern.
- Agitation or retardation.
- Self reproach or unnecessary guilt.
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.
- Depressed mood-most of the day.
Can I help myself?
Self-care is just the beginning. It allows you greater control and makes you feel better. Also any kind of exercise helps. Overcoming depression is a step-by-step process. You must keep your appointments with your doctor and take the medicines exactly as prescribed. In the beginning you may feel that bodily symptoms like tremulousness, constipation, etc. are getting worse, but do not discontinue medicines because the symptoms will diminish over a period of time. Avoid being alone. Depression cannot be cured overnight. Conquering depression is a step by step process. But the silver lining to this kind of mood disorder is that it is one of the most treatable. ]
Diagnosis
This booklet is created and published to help you understand what depression is. It is not a substitute for proper medical and/or professional help of any kind. Only your doctor is equipped to make a complete diagnosis and recommend the appropriate course of action.
Prevention
Depressed persons often get entangled in 'informed' helplessness. It is easier to set smaller, achievable goals. It heightens self-esteem. Also one of the easiest things to do is to talk to a friend in whom you have complete faith, trust and confidence. It works wonders.
Medicines
For many depressed persons, just talking to friends or performing simple exercises may not be sufficient. A class of drugs referred to as 'antidepressants' as prescribed by the doctor are also necessary. That is, both work better in tandem than either of them work individually.
Can I become normal again?
Yes! Almost everyone can recover from depression. But it is important to understand that recovery from depressive illness is a slow process. You must be in regular touch with your doctor, continue the medicines as prescribed (even if you begin to feel better). Seek support of friends and family members. Remember, depression can strike again. You need not lose hope. All you need to do is develop a positive attitude. Set your priorities right, without bending to physiological, psychological or social barriers, to be able to lead a normal happy life.
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