Mental Health Awareness for Depression

Depression is not simply feeling low or sad. It is a genuine mental health concern that can be triggered by several causes. While sadness can be brief, depression will persist for at least two weeks or more. When depression persists, it may become a serious health condition and hamper an individual’s ability to function in many areas of life, including work and relationships.

Some cases of depression are more severe, with intense symptoms such as significant appetite and weight loss, sleep problems, and frequent thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Signs & Symptoms of Depression

Psychological Symptoms

Feeling sad or hopeless
Feeling depressed and lonely
Persistent anxiousness or ‘empty’ feelings
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness
Having a hard time concentrating
Difficulty in recalling details
Difficulty in making decisions
Loss of interest in once pleasurable activities or hobbies
Restlessness, agitation, irritability
Suicidal thoughts

Physical Symptoms

Fatigue and decreased energy
Insomnia or excessive sleeping
Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems
Overeating/weight gain and loss of appetite/weight loss

HOW CAN YOU HELP YOURSELF?

Seek professional help as soon as possible.
Engage in regular physical exercise or activities that can help enhance your mood.
Set realistic goals for yourself by breaking down large tasks into smaller ones.
Try not to isolate yourself and spend time with a trusted friend or family member.
Increase your awareness about the illness by learning from trusted sources.
Expect your mood to improve gradually and not immediately.

HOW CAN YOU HELP SOMEONE ELSE?

Offer emotional support, understanding, patience and encouragement.
Listen without judging the person.
Never dismiss the individual’s feelings or undermine what they are going through.
If references to suicide or self-harm are made, reach out to a mental health professional immediately.
Ensure the person is not left alone as far as possible.
Urge the person to seek professional support. Remind them that with time and professional help depression can be overcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Know more about the conditions that can and might co-exist with depression.

Is depression a mental illness?
Yes, depression is a serious, but treatable, medical condition. With the right treatment and support, individuals who are diagnosed with depression can get better.
How long does depression last?
A major depressive episode is characterized by a set of symptoms that typically lasts for a few months. If left untreated, depression can last for months or sometimes years.
Can depression be cured on its own?
Depression is a serious mental illness and is unlikely to go away on its own or cure itself. Without treatment, depression can last for months or years and can become chronic. While a person experiencing depression may have days when they are able to cope, and other days when they find it difficult, it is important to reach out and seek professional treatment at the earliest. Even severe depression symptoms can be treated.
Can someone who has had depression previously experience it again?
Having experienced an episode of depression can place a person at higher risk of a relapse. But not everyone who has recovered from depression will experience it again. Getting the right treatment is crucial to recovery and in helping prevent future episodes.

Mental Health Awareness for Depression

Signs & Symptoms of Depression

HOW CAN YOU HELP YOURSELF?

HOW CAN YOU HELP SOMEONE ELSE?

Frequently Asked Questions

Free helplines for mental health counselling