Understanding Depression-1 in 15 persons is affected, reach for help

By Mark DaCosta- Depression is a serious, possibly life-threatening mental illness that affects many persons worldwide. The condition is well understood by medical science, and effective treatments and interventions are available. Unfortunately, though, many ordinary persons know little about the issue. This lack of knowledge may result in persons failing to recognise the symptoms of depression in themselves and others and as a result, patients may not get the treatment they need even though it may be available. This article seeks to answer common questions about depression and other problems associated with it and suggest ways to deal with the illness.

What is depression, and how does it feel?

Depression is a mental and behavioural disorder characterised mainly by fatigue, exhaustion, aversion to activity, low mood, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities that usually bring joy. Sometimes, depression involves a feeling of sadness, but, contrary to common belief, sadness is not the biggest part of the illness.

What are the behavioural symptoms?

Some common symptoms are:

Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness.

Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters.

Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports.

Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much.

Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort.

Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain.

Anxiety, agitation or restlessness.

Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements.

Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame.

Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things.

Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide.

Is depression the same as grief?

No; they are not the same. Depression is different from grief felt after losing a loved one, or sadness felt after a traumatic life event such as loss of a job. Depression, on the other hand, usually involves self-loathing or a loss of self-esteem, while grief typically does not.

How common is depression?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) says that the illness affects about 1 in 15 persons at any given time, and about 1 in 6 persons will experience it at some time during life. This works out to about 4 per cent of the global population. In Guyana, the statistics mirror the global numbers.

What causes depression?

Experts say that differences in certain chemicals in the brain may contribute to depression. Also, continuous exposure to violence, neglect, abuse or poverty may make some people more vulnerable to depression. The illness has a genetic component; in identical twins, if one is depressed, the other twin has a more than 70 per cent chance of being depressed as well.

How is depression treated?

Doctors may use a variety or combination of approaches to help the patient depending on the severity and duration of symptoms. Counselling and psychotherapy may be used as well as medications which can affect the chemicals in the brain of the patient. In severe cases a patient may require hospitalisation, however, fortunately, most patients respond well to outpatient treatments and other medical interventions.

Can drugs cause this illness?

Yes; some medications can produce symptoms. Such medicines include sleeping pills. Persons should speak with the doctor if such problems arise. Notably, alcohol use is known to cause depression both in the long term and short term. Many persons who are victims of suicide have been found to be intoxicated at the time of his or her death.

What should I do if I notice the symptoms in myself or others?

You should act quickly. Remember, depression may cause death by suicide or accident. The person experiencing symptoms should seek medical help without delay.

In Guyana, persons who experience symptoms or observe symptoms in another person may get help and advice by calling 600-7896 at any time of the day or night. The call is free of cost.