Depression is Real

Do we know that our actions towards others can cause them to be depressed? For further clarity, let us see some definitions of depression. In psychotherapy and psychiatry, it is a state of mind producing serous long term lowering of enjoyment of life or inability to visualize a happy future. It is a period of unhappiness or low morale which lasts longer than several weeks and may include ideation of self-inflicted injury or suicide.

Depression is far beyond mood swings or waking up on the wrong side of the bed. It is triggered by something, someone or an event that damages the personality slowly. Of recent times, there have been reports of individuals, mostly youths, committing suicide because they could not bear to watch themselves drown in self-pity.

Life events and changes that may precipitate depression include financial difficulties, unemployment, medical diagnosis, bullying, loss of a loved one, and social isolation among others. However adolescents may be prone to experiencing depressed mood following social rejection, peer pressure and bullying.

As it turns out, some individuals get depressed by being teased about their weight or even because of pressures to maintain a good CGPA in school. For others, it is being forced to study a course just to favour their parents and some- trying to fit into a particular social group. One student said “my depression and anxiety started some time ago before I came to the University, but leaving home, being in an extremely tasking social environment and being under large academic pressure all took a toll on me”. This goes a long way to illustrate how adjusting to a new environment can be difficult.

Seeing the kind of society we are in, people find it absurd to be counselled by a therapist over such issues; they would simply say ‘I am not crazy’. I strongly think we need to look beyond such mentality and take the necessary steps to have a healthy mental life.

No two people are affected the same way by depression and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. However, here are a few things to help through depression. Set realistic goals for yourself, be determined to achieve them and speak positively to yourself. Do not isolate yourself from others; instead surround yourself with morale boosters. Try to spend time with others and get involved with activities and group works. See a therapist or health care provider if you have the opportunity, confide in a trusted friend or family member; it helps to unburden the mind. Finally, expect your mood to change gradually not immediately; it is a process not magic.

My heart goes out to all going through tough and difficult situations right now. All I can say is set your mind to positivism and you will get through it!

Osarennoma A. Ogbeide, 200 Level Psychology student