A Guide to Understanding Depression

Editor's Opening Note: In Nigeria, certain things are taken for granted. One of such things is depression. Millions of people suffer depression. And, over 50 percent of all people who die by suicide suffer from major depression. The author of this post is concerned about families who cover up suicide related deaths due to shame and hopes to bring awareness.

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Mood swings and sadness are normal reactions to life’s struggles, setbacks and disappointments. Most people use the word “depression” to describe these reactions. But, depression is much more than sadness.

Some people describe the feelings of depression as “living in a black hole” or having a sense of impending doom. However, some depressed people don’t feel sad at all; they may feel empty, lifeless and apathetic, or - men in particular - may feel angry, restless and aggressive. 

Whatever the symptoms, depression is different from sadness in the sense that it engulfs your day-to-day life, interfering with your ability to eat, sleep, work and enjoy activities that would otherwise be pleasurable. Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness are intense, with little, if any, relief. 

The ups and downs of life dictate that everyone feels sad or has “the blues” from time to time. But in cases where you feel unrelenting despair and emptiness take hold of your life, you may be in a state of depression. 

It's tough to function and enjoy life like you once did when feeling depressed. The deep despair and hopelessness that goes along with depression can make suicide feel like the only way to escape the pain. But, no matter how hopeless you feel, know you can get better. Understanding the signs, symptoms, causes, and treatment of depression is a major step to overcoming the problem.

Depression can happen to anybody. If you suspect a loved one is suffering from depression, take any suicidal behaviour seriously and learn to recognize signs. Warning signs may include:

Talking about killing or harming one’s self.

Calling or visiting people to say good bye.

  Expressing strong feelings of hopelessness or being trapped.

An unusual preoccupation with death or dying. 

Acting recklessly, as if pressing on for a death wish.

Giving away prized possessions.

Saying things like ‘everyone would be better off without me’.

A sudden switch from being extremely depressed to acting happy.

Seek professional help

If support from family and friends, positive life style changes, and emotional skills building aren’t enough, it's important to seek help from a health professional. There are many effective treatments for depression, including therapy and medication. Learning about your opportunities will help you decide what measures are most likely to work best for your situations and needs.

Are Anti-depressant right for you?

Medication can help relieve the symptoms of depression in some people, but they aren’t a cure and they come with draw backs of their own. Learning the facts about antidepressant and weighing the benefits against the risks can help you make an informed and personal decision about whether medication is right for you. Always consult with your doctor before the administration of any medication.

Please share your thoughts and/or experiences with depression in the comments. 

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Guest Post by Chuka Samuel Nwokolo

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Chuka Nwokolo is a practising Psychologist and an avid reader of BasicPulse.

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Photo Source: www.thumotic.com

Editor's Closing Note: If you ever consider suicide as a remedy to your problems, Tim Ferriss has some Practical Thoughts On Suicide.