WHAT IS DEPRESSION AND HOW TO COME OUT FROM THE SITUATION?

 WHAT IS DEPRESSION AND HOW TO COME OUT FROM THE SITUATION?

Depression is a mental health condition that causes persistent sadness, hopelessness and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed. It can affect the way a person thinks, feels and behaves, and can lead to emotional and physical problems. Some common symptoms of depression include:

Persistent sadness or emptiness

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

Fatigue or lack of energy

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness

Trouble concentrating or making decisions

Sleep disturbances (sleeping too much or too little)

Changes in appetite or weight

Thoughts of death or suicide

How to overcome depression:

Recognise your feelings: Recognising and accepting that you are struggling with depression is the first step towards treatment. It is important to understand that it is okay not to feel okay.

Seek professional help: A therapist, counsellor or psychiatrist can provide you with the support you need. Therapy (such as cognitive behavioural therapy or CBT) can help you understand negative thought patterns and teach you strategies to deal with them.

Medication: Antidepressants may be prescribed by a doctor to help manage symptoms. They can rebalance chemicals in the brain that affect mood and behaviour.

Build a support system: Surround yourself with supportive people, whether it's family, friends or a support group. Talking to someone you trust can make a significant difference.

Establish a routine: Depression can disrupt daily routines. Establishing a structured daily schedule helps bring a sense of normality. Try to keep a regular wake-up time, mealtime and bedtime.

Exercise: Physical activity can significantly improve mood by releasing endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Even a daily walk can make a big difference.

Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet and avoiding excessive alcohol or junk food can help stabilize mood and energy levels.

Get enough sleep: Depression often affects sleep, so aim for a regular sleep schedule. Avoid screens before bedtime and create a calming bedtime routine. Challenge negative thoughts: Depression often leads to negative self-talk. Learning to recognize these thoughts and challenge their accuracy can help you break the cycle of negativity. Be patient with yourself: Recovery takes time, and small steps matter. Celebrate any progress, no matter how small it may seem. If you are struggling with depression, it is important to reach out for help. If you ever have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please seek help immediately from a mental health professional or helpline. You are not alone, and help is available.