Life is too short, and life is too long to allow depression to go untreated.
This is what one stated article I read recently. It mentioned the importance of treating depression in a world where 300 million people suffer from it. With those numbers, it seems that if we haven't been depressed ourselves, at least we've known someone who is. And yet, Depression remains a poorly understood condition.
Partly because there are many myths that surround her, but also because it is a difficult topic to discuss in our everyday conversations. It is not the same to talk to a friend and tell them that you went to the doctor because your throat hurts, than admit something more painful what it can be like to be depressed.
To understand the topic and put an end to the false beliefs that surround it, I share with you general but useful information that we all need to know about depression.
Being sad does not mean having depression.
Sadness is one of our basic emotions, and it's completely normal to feel sad from time to time, depending on the circumstances. Being sad about a loss or emotional injury is an expected psychological reaction. Just because we're not happy all the time doesn't mean we're depressed.
Depression encompasses other feelings besides sadness.
Depression is a chronic mental condition that involves prolonged periods of sadness. But that's not the only feeling experienced. People suffering from depression may also experience apathy, lack of concentration, shame, anxiety, and a sense of hopelessness. In addition, many people report feeling a kind of numbness in the face of what is happening to them.
As you might imagine, a person's sleep patterns, appetite, and overall energy level are affected. As a result, their quality of life decreases.
Depression is not as obvious as it might seem.
The image we often have of someone who's depressed is someone lying in bed with no desire to get up. Or someone crying in the corner of their bedroom listening to sad songs on repeat.
But it doesn't have to be that way. Depressed people are still people: they go to school, work, go out, and do their best to get through life and get through the day. It's important to keep in mind that Being depressed doesn't mean feeling absolutely terrible 24 hours a day., so they can have real moments (and streaks) of happiness and well-being.
There is no infallible look or visible symptoms to know whether someone has depression or not.
Depression can be treated.
It's easy to think that the outlook is bleak when you have depression or want to help someone who suffers from it. That's why it's important to know that's not the case.
There are ways to treat this condition. The psychological guidance It is always recommended and, in fact, is one of the main reasons for consultation. But it's not the only way to treat depression. Depending on the intensity and severity of symptoms, you can consult a psychiatrist. Art therapy, support groups, and family support are also often helpful. Often, a combination of these methods is most effective.
If you're feeling depressed, seek professional guidance (as soon as possible) to determine what's happening and how you can get help. If a loved one shows signs of depression, encourage them to do the same.
Remember: Life is too short, and at the same time too long, to allow depression to go untreated.
