Special Article#1 FINDING HOPE

Depression:- Depression is a common mental disorder affecting more than 264 million people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities.  It can also disturb sleep and appetite; tiredness and poor concentration are common. Depression is a leading cause of disability around the world and contributes greatly to the global burden of disease. The effects of depression can be long-lasting or recurrent and can dramatically affect a person’s ability to function and live a rewarding life.

To the Depressed

There is a difference between being depressed and being in depression. Being depressed is when you are sad for a short period of time like when you don't get what you want or it does not go as you plan for it. For example, you plan for a surprise for a friend and he/she gets to know about it, you feel depressed.

Depression is a serious mental condition. It is very hard to come out of it. If you are really suffering from depression. Don't start living with it. Don't let your mind take control of your thoughts and your actions. You are not alone in this world suffering from this condition. Depression deviates from the path you want to follow.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

• Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness

• Loss of interest in daily activities

• Appetite or weight changes

• Sleep changes

• Anger or irritability

• Loss of energy

• Self-loathing

• Reckless behavior

• Concentration problems

• Unexplained aches and pains

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms. Don't be silent. Share it with someone who can understand. There will be someone in the world who can understand. Be aware and accept your condition. Don't lose hope in your life especially. People will not come to you unless you share. There are solutions to your problems, you have to find it.

To the people around the depressed

If your friend or son or student or someone close is showing the symptoms above. Don't think that he will come out of it. It is very hard to control the mind in that situation. Try to know from them. Most of the people will not tell you what they are going through as they think it's not right to tell about the story

Warning signs!!

• Talking about killing or harming one’s self

• Expressing strong feelings of hopelessness or being trapped

• An unusual preoccupation with death or dying

• Acting recklessly, as if they have a death wish

• Calling or visiting people to say goodbye

• Getting affairs in order

• Saying things like “Everyone would be better off without me” or “I want out”

• A sudden switch from being extremely depressed to acting calm and happy

If your close one is showing the signs mentioned before then you should take action. Don't be arrogant and think that he/ she is so sensitive. You would have also been in that situation. Don't let the person take any serious action. Go and ask them "I am worried about you. How can I help you?".Know what happened to him/her