eeling sad, down, and having a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities are familiar feelings for all of us. But if they persist and affect our lives substantially, the issue may be depression. Recently actress Deepika Padukone has openly talked about her struggle with depression.
In an interview to a magazine the actress said that it was a struggle every second.
She said, “The word that best describes my experience of depression is struggle. Every second was a struggle. I felt exhausted the whole time. People have to understand that it’s a clinical condition beyond your control. And you must seek help”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) depression can affect adults, adolescents, and children.
So, what are the symptoms of depression? Depression is a mood disorder that involves a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It is different from the mood fluctuations that people regularly experience as a part of life. Major life events, such as bereavement or the loss of a job, divorce, can cause depression. Other reasons could be family history, childhood trauma and certain medical conditions.
Depression is an ongoing problem, not a passing one. It consists of episodes during which the symptoms last for at least 2 weeks. Depression can last for several weeks, months, or years. What we have to understand is that depression is treatable, and if the symptoms persist we should seek medical help.
Support: This can range from discussing practical solutions and possible causes to educating family members.
Psychotherapy: Also known as talking therapy, some options include one-to-one counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Drug treatment: A doctor may prescribe antidepressants
Our take is that if you are experiencing any persistant symptoms of depression, do reach out to family members and friends. And do get treatment as soon as possible.
