Dr. Semra Salik, CEO PsychCare is a Consultant Psychologist and Hypnotherapist working in the field of mental health. With her expertise, we dive deep into the issue of depression and ways to overcome this illness.
What does depression look like, how will you define it?
Depression is a mental illness characterized by persistent low mood and a decreased ability to engage with the world around you e.g. Decreased interest in activities one would ordinarily love. While it is classified as a mental illness, the manifestation of the disease is not only limited to mental symptoms. There arephysical, emotional and behavioral symptoms as well.
What circumstances can lead towards depression?
There can be various reasons that can lead to depression. It can be transferred from parents to children. It can be due to environmental factors like difficulty in adjusting to new place or people, or due to any other psychological problem. People suffering from chronic physical diseases may also develop depression overtime.
How can we know if someone is suffering from depression?
Symptoms of depression can be categorized into four domains. In mental domain,person suffers from concentration difficulties, negative intrusive thoughts, starts believing they are worthless, and shows the desire to commit suicide. Behavioral domain includes social withdrawal, becoming unhinged from ‘routine’ e.g. hygiene, sporting commitments, unhealthy coping behaviors. Physical symptoms include sleep disturbances, appetite changes, extreme fatigue, stomach issues, low energy, and headaches. Lastly, Emotional domain include numbness, guilt, shame, despair, self-hatred, grief, and hopelessness.
How to overcome depression and where to get help when depression sets in?
By involving yourself in healthy activities like exercise and meditation, keeping journal for daily activities, trying to be aware of your emotions and feelings and embracing your shortcomings in a positive way. It’s important to seek help from a clinician to cure depression. Do not be ashamed ofconsulting a psychologistor asking for help instead of suffering quietly. It is a brave step towards a happy living.
How can we help someone suffering from depression?
You can help them by reaching out to them, telling them that you are there for them, if appropriate and possible try to connect and stay in touch with them, make time for deeper conversation, encourage their little efforts towards betterment. Your little effort can be a big help to them.