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Are You Suffering from Depression?

The word depression is commonly used in our day to day life. We often say or feel ‘depressed’. But are we aware of the severity and aftermath of  acute depression? Probably not. Depression can lead to reduced performance, weaker health condition, broken relationships and the worst could be even a suicidal tendency. So, depression is considered as a form mental health problem. Ironically, in Bangladesh mental health is a least prioritised area. Out of the total health budget only 0.5% is invested in mental health related sectors. Only 4% doctors and 2% nurses are trained in mental health care.

Let us try to understand what is depression and what causes depression? Depression is a medical condition, which triggers low mood and one that makes us feel withdrawn and rejected. It is a mental state where the depressed person becomes mentally paralysed and cripples the feelings by bringing lots of bad thoughts. Acute depression can take an individual to a downward spiral and as many have described – it is like a dark place from where one can not come back. Depression can lead to anxiety, stress and even worse consequences like suicide. Beyond Blue, a popular mental health and well-being platform of Australia pointed the following causes of depression –

  • Family history – Depression can run in families and some people will be at an increased genetic risk. However, having a parent or close relative with depression doesn’t mean you’ll automatically have the same experience. Life circumstances and other personal factors are still likely to have an important influence.
  • Personality – Some people may be more at risk of depression because of their personality, particularly if they have a tendency to worry a lot, have low self-esteem, are perfectionists, are sensitive to personal criticism, or are self-critical and negative.
  • Serious medical illness – The stress and worry of coping with a serious illness can lead to depression, especially if you’re dealing with long-term management and/or chronic pain.
  • Drug and alcohol use – Drug and alcohol use can both lead to and result from depression. Many people with depression also have drug and alcohol problems. 

BeyondBlue has created a checklist to assess whether we are depressed or not? Click in this like to find out if you are depressed

Depression is mostly visible in certain groups of people e.g. adolescent period of an individual, pregnant women, socially isolated people. If you are suffering from depression then talk with a Psychologist immediately. It is also a good idea to share your problems, sufferings with someone which may ease of the mental load. Watch the following video where you can learn some quick facts on how to battle depression.

 

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