DEPRESSION/SUCIDAL THOUGHTS

Depressive disorder, often just called depression, is a serious but treatable mental health condition that affects a person’s mood, thoughts, and daily functioning. It's not just about feeling sad or down for a short period; depression is more intense and lasts longer, making everyday tasks feel like a challenge.

In India lifetime prevalence of Depressive disorder is 5.3% (National Mental Health Survey of India 2015-16).

Depression is not a sign of weakness. It’s a brain disorder that needs treatment, just like any other illness, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

Common Symptoms of Depressive Disorder:

1. Sadness of mood:
A constant feeling of sadness or emptiness that doesn’t go away. It may feel like the person is trapped in a dark emotional place.

2. Anhedonia- Loss of Interest/ Pleasure:
In depression, people often lose interest in activities they used to enjoy, like spending time with family, hobbies, or work.

3. Changes in Sleep:
Depression can cause people to sleep too much (hypersomnia) or too little (insomnia). Sleep disturbances are common.

4. Fatigue and Low Energy:
Depression can make you feel constantly tired, even after sleeping. Simple activities like getting out of bed, making meals, or walking may feel exhausting.

5. Worthless and Guilt:
People with depression may feel useless, as though they have failed, or they might blame themselves for things which aren’t their fault. This can also lead to extreme guilt over things that others might not think twice about.

6. Concentration problem:
Depression can make it hard to focus on tasks, make decisions, or even remember simple things. It might feel like your mind is “cloudy” or slow.

7. Changes in Appetite or Weight:
People with depression may experience changes in their eating habits. Some might eat too much (leading to weight gain), while others lose their appetite (leading to weight loss).

8. Suicidal ideas or planning:
In severe cases, depression can lead to thoughts of death, or even suicide. If someone is having these thoughts, it’s extremely important to seek help immediately. A study published in the Lancet Psychiatry journal in 2016 found that suicide risk in individuals with major depression is approximately 20 times higher than in the general population. The study emphasized that 10-15% of individuals with severe depression will die by suicide if not treated effectively.[Nock, M. K., Borges, G., Bromet, E. J., et al. (2008). Cross-national prevalence and risk factors for suicidal ideation, plans, and attempts. The Lancet Psychiatry, 365(9457)]