We may feel sad or depressed at one time or another. Depression may be triggered by disappointment in life, frustration, loss of a loved one, failed marriage or romance, family demands or work pressure and the list goes on.
Through time, healing may take place and lives move on. However, there is a certain group of people where depression has hit them so severely that they no longer could cope with lives….they need treatment.
It commonly begins in people aged between 20 and 40 years, although depression could hit children and older people. Women are twice more likely to be hit by depression and those with family history of depression.
Depression is not something to avoid or feel embarrassed about. It is not a character flaw nor a moral or psychological weakness. By understanding the symptoms and causes of depression will surely help you to be on the look-out for sign of depression in your loved ones.
Symptoms of depression
Sadness or feeling gloomy
Loss of appetite Loss of weight
Loss of interests in activities previously engaged in
Lethargy
Feeling restless
Insommia
Feeling worthless
Feeling guilty
Recurrent thoughts of suicide
Causes of depression
The primary causes of depression are caused by life events such as a loss of job, divorce, loss of a loved one, life threatening or chronic illness, retirement or a combination of these causes. Some believe that social circumstances may play a part such as loneliness, lack of social life. While others accord depression to genetic, psychological or environment factors. The good news is that whatever the cause, depression is treatable.
Help needed?
Go and see a doctor so that diagnosis can be done and treatment can be given. Confide and talk to someone close. Sometimes it is good to have a good cry. Do not set unrealistic goals for yourself Do not compare yourself with others Try to eat a balanced diet
