DEPRESSION

 

Depression is a profound emotional disorder that dulls joy, energy, and the will to live. It's not just being sad: it's feeling a constant emptiness, as if everything has lost meaning, even the things that once made you happy. It affects the mind, body, and heart... and even though it's not visible, it can destroy those who suffer from it if they don't get help.

HOW IT BEGINS?                                                                                                                                                         Depression often begins silently: with unexplained tiredness, lack of motivation, insomnia or sleeping   too much, loss of interest in things that once excited you, feeling lonely even when surrounded by people.             

CAUSES?

1.Difficult events: the death of a loved one, a breakup, bullying, trauma, or abuse.

2.Emotional problems: low self-esteem, feeling worthless or unloved.

3.Constant stress: at school, at home, or in relationships.

4.Hormonal or brain changes: chemical imbalances that affect mood.

5.Genetics: If there's a family history of depression, the risk increases.

6.Social isolation: feeling lonely or having no one to talk to.

7.Addictions: Drug or alcohol use can cause or worsen depression.

types of depression:

1. Major Depression

The most intense. The person feels deeply sad, empty, or worthless almost constantly, for more than two weeks. They may lose their appetite, stop sleeping, and even have thoughts of death.

2. Dysthymia (persistent depression)

It's like a silent, constant sadness that lasts for years. It's not as intense as major depression, but it slowly wears down the sufferer.

3. Seasonal depression

It appears at certain times of the year, especially in winter, when there is less sun. It affects mood, sleep, and energy.

4. Postpartum depression

This happens to some women after giving birth. They feel sad, exhausted, and disconnected from their baby, even if they love them.

5. Bipolar disorder (depressive phase)

This disorder involves extreme highs and lows: moments of euphoria and others of deep depression. It's not just a "mood swing"; it's changes that affect daily life.

6. Atypical depression

The person may appear to be fine (laughing, working, going out), but inside they feel empty. They sometimes overeat, sleep a lot, and feel very rejected.

What to do if you know someone who suffers from depression?:

1.Listen without judgment. Don't tell them "cheer up" or "that's nothing."

2.Be patient. Depression doesn't go away overnight.

3.Encourage them to seek help from a psychologist or other professional.

4.Learn about depression to better understand it.

5.Let them know they're not alone and that you care.

6.If they talk about hurting themselves or dying, seek urgent help from an adult or professional.

Does depression cause anxiety?:

Yes, depression can cause anxiety, and they often go hand in hand.

A person with depression may feel so bad about themselves, so insecure, or trapped, that they begin to experience:

1.Constant worry.

2.Unexplained nervousness.

3.Fear that something bad will happen.

4.Heart palpitations, sweating, or shortness of breath.

This is called mixed anxiety and depression disorder, and it's more common than you might think.