Breaking the silence

What is depression?

Depression is an illness characterized by persistent sadness and a loss of interest in activities that you normally enjoy, accompanied by an inability to carry out daily activities for at least two weeks.It is curable.

What are the common symptoms of depression?

• Loss of interest in things that bring joy
• Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Overeating or appetite loss
• Trouble in concentrating
• Disturbed sleep
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts

Depression affects everyone

Large numbers of children, adolescents, middle-aged groups and the elderly, both men and women of different religions, residing in urban and rural areas and slums of India are suffering from depression. Some of the risk factors for depression are loss of a loved one, social or financial stresses, family history of depression, and chronic medical condition. Some individuals can experience loneliness and low feeling for no apparent reason at all.

Depression can and should be treated

Depression is not a sign of weakness or a defect in character. People with depression cannot get better simply by “pulling themselves up by their bootstraps”. Depression is as real as other medical conditions such as cancer and diabetes and can and should be treated. What treatment is best and how long the depression lasts depend on the severity of depression. Patience and perseverance is needed as recovery can take time. The support of caregivers, friends and family facilitates recovery from depression. If you think you have depression, seek help from a mental health professional.