DEPRESSION

Depression is a mood disorder that affects how you feel, think and even behave. It causes a persistent feeling of sadness, emptiness and loss of interest. It can make you isolate yourself as a coping mechanism.

Depression can cause eating disorders, that is you either eat too much or don’t eat at all. Nothing matters to you at that moment. You disregard your health, appearance, hygiene and even the willpower to live or move about. There’s a certain hopelessness to it that envelopes in that it’s all you can see. Depression is a certain kind of darkness with no light whatsoever.

You can be surrounded by people but you’re still alone. It doesn’t matter the occassion or who those people are to you. Nothing or no one can get you out of there. But not all look worn out and distressed.

Lack of interest in things you used to do and sleeping so much should also be something to look out for. They may say they’re okay but their behaviours say otherwise. Nothing feels right or enjoyable to do anymore. You go where the breeze takes you. Insomnia can also be possible, you don’t necessarily have to sleep all day. Some lack sleep when stressed. The mind goes into overdrive and you lack rest both mentally and physically.

Feeling guilty for not understanding your feelings. You become so restless, withdrawn and tired. Trying to gauge how you’re feeling, what to feel and feeling like you’re a burden to yourself and everyone around you. Nothing makes sense to you and you get so overwhelmed by everything happening to you. It can get so bad that you can get suicidal. You think it’s the only option or looking for a way out of that darkness. No one knows when it gets there nor how one got there and it can get very dark. One might think that is the end and you’ve no way out but it doesn’t have to be that way.

It doesn’t mean that you’ve to be gloomy and sad and looking wounded. You wouldn’t even know that most of this people have depression. Some hide it pretty well, they go on about their day as usual. They put on a happy smile, are goofy and look like they are enjoying life. They know how to mask it well, do what they normally do and act how thay always act. Deep within, only they know how they feel. Only they who know the demons they’re fighting with. Only they know what’s happening behind the mask. These are the ones you always wonder what happened because they never looked like a person in pain.

Just because a person looks happy and carefree, doesn’t mean that’s how they’re. Some are harboring pains you can never imagine. You can tell with some but not with all.

Coping Strategies:

1. Seek Professional Help: Consult a mental health professional such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or therapist for proper evaluation and treatment.
2. Build a Support System: Talk to friends, family, or support groups. Share your feelings and don’t isolate yourself.
3. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and ensure sufficient sleep. Physical well-being is linked to mental well-being.
4. Set Realistic Goals: Break down tasks into manageable steps and celebrate small achievements.
5. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help manage stress and improve mood.
6. Limit Alcohol and Substance Use: Avoid excessive alcohol or drug use, as they can exacerbate depression.
7. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Identify and challenge negative thought patterns. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly helpful for this.
8. Establish Routine: Establishing a daily routine can provide a sense of stability and predictability.
9. Engage in Enjoyable Activities: Even if it’s challenging, try to engage in activities you used to enjoy. Gradually reintroduce them into your routine.
10. Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed by a healthcare professional to help manage symptoms. It’s important to consult with a doctor about the potential benefits and risks.