Depression is a term that tends to get thrown out a lot. It’s often portrayed in the media, and it’s restricted through the portrayal of stereotypical characters. But what does it really mean?
According to American Psychiatric Association, depression is a serious yet common mental illness that affects our feelings, thoughts and actions. It causes extreme sadness and leads you to prefer isolation than engage in activities particularly those involving interaction. It tends to make you lose interest in things you love doing. Depression causes both emotional and physical problems where functionality refuses to kick in.
Below are some symptoms of Depression:
- Extreme sadness or anxiety. Feelings of guilt, helplessness and worthlessness.
- Changes in appetite, either overeating or loss of appetite
- Irritability, restlessness and self-loathing
- Loss of interest in things you loved doing and other daily things
- Change in sleeping patterns either insomnia or over sleeping
- Fatigue
- Consistently experiencing aches, pains, and headaches
- Hard to concentrate and to make decisions
- Has suicidal thoughts or attempts
If you have these symptoms for at least 2 weeks, schedule an appointment with a doctor. The good thing about this medical illness is that it can be treated. Here are steps on how to fight depression:
- Fight back from your inner self-attacks. Everyone has that inner pessimistic voice that stops you from doing what you want to do. No matter how stronger that voice gets, fight back and do the opposite.
- Create a routine. By doing this, you’ll be able to slowly get yourself out of the rut and start becoming more functional. Push yourself off the bed even if you don’t feel like doing anything.
- Lead a healthier lifestyle. Have the right amount of sleep. Eat right so that your body responds well and you won’t feel sluggish. Exercise releases a happy hormone called endorphins which can help you fight depression.
- Surround yourself with people you love. When you’re with people who will always be there for you, you create a safe place. You are reminded that you are not alone and that you’re loved.
- Seek professional help. If you want to analyze what triggered the depression and how to prevent it from happening, consult with a psychiatrist. They will be able to give you an objective assessment of what might have happened and how you can deal with it.
If you have friends or relatives who are undergoing depression, be as compassionate as you can and be there for them because depression is no joke.
