DEPRESSION: HOW TO SNAP OUT OF IT

Sometimes, one could feel sad or “down”. That is okay but when it becomes persistent, it shows there is a problem- DEPRESSION.

Depression is a mood disorder that involves a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in things previously interested in or enjoyed.

According to the World Health Organization(WHO). It is the main cause of disability. Depression can affect adults, adolescents, and children.

In Nigeria, depression is grossly under-diagnosed resulting to an increased rate of suicide in the country.

Extreme cases of depression lead to suicide.

DEPRESSION CHECK LIST (SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS)

The following are pointers to depression

1. a low mood
2. reduced interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
3. a loss of sexual desire
4. changes in appetite
5. unintentional weight loss or gain
6. sleeping too much or too little
7. agitation, restlessness, and pacing up and down
8. slowed movement and speech
9. fatigue or loss of energy
10. feelings of worthlessness or guilt
11. difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
12. recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or an attempt at suicide

Women have a 2 fold increase rate of having depression and they may exhibit,

1. irritability,
2. anxiety,
3.  mood swings,
4. fatigue, and
5. dwelling on negative thoughts.

Women may also suffer from

1. postpartum depression and
2. premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Men who are depressed may

1. take alcohol in excess,
2. display anger, and
3. engage in risk-taking as a result of the disorder.
4. They may also avoid families and social situations,
5. work without a break,
6.  have difficulty keeping up with work and family responsibilities and
7. display abusive or controlling behavior in relationships.

CAUSES OF DEPRESSION

There are many possible causes, and sometimes, various factors combine to trigger symptoms.

Factors that are likely to play a role include genetic features, changes in the brain’s neurotransmitter levels, environmental factors, psychological and social factors and conditions such as bipolar disorder

These risk factors (which could make one depressed) are highlighted as follows

1. experiencing certain life events, such as bereavement, work issues, changes in relationships, financial problems, and medical concerns
2. experiencing acute stress
3. having a lack of successful coping strategies
4. having a close relative with depression
5. using some prescription drugs, such as corticosteroids, some beta-blockers, and interferon
6. using recreational drugs, such as alcohol or amphetamines
7. having sustained a head injury
8. having had a previous episode of major depression
9. having a chronic condition, such as diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or cardiovascular disease
10. living with persistent pain

WHAT TO DO WHEN DEPRESSION IS SUSPECTED

If a person suspects that they have symptoms of depression, they should seek professional help from a doctor or mental health specialist.

A qualified health professional can rule out various causes, ensure an accurate diagnosis, and provide safe and effective treatment.

They will ask questions about symptoms, such as how long they have been present. A doctor may also conduct an examination to check for physical causes and order a blood test to rule out other health conditions.

TREATMENT

Depression is treatable, and managing symptoms is very important.

Ways of treating depression include

1. Providing support – This can range from discussing practical solutions and possible causes to educating family members
2.  Psychotherapy – Psychological, or talking, therapies for depression include CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) , interpersonal psychotherapy, and problem-solving treatment, among others
3. Medication –To be prescribed only by the doctor (when you are depressed)
4. Food and diet – Fruits, vegetables, fish and olive oil are good in reducing the symptoms of depression.
5. Food supplements and natural remedies – Chamomile, ginseng and lavender are natural remedies said to improve the mood in depression.
6. Exercise – Aerobic exercise raises endorphin levels and stimulates the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which is linked with mood. This may help relieve mild depression.

WHAT TO DO TO PREVENT SUICIDE

1. If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:
2. Call 112 or 199 or any other emergency line.
3. Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
4. Remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.
5. Listen to the person without judgment.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. Contact the following:

• Mentally Aware Nigeria (MANI) 08064888643, 09032419184, 08136770508,email: contact@mentallyaware.org
• Nigeria Suicide Prevention Initiative (NSPI) email: sspinitiative@gmail.com
• Boulevard Consult email: boulevardconsults@gmail.com

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