Depression

Depression is a medical condition characterized by feelings of sadness, dull mood, loss of interest, and anxiousness. It is distinct from the normal mood changes that many individuals experience.

Studies by psychological health specialists have shown that depression can significantly affect our thinking, behavior, and feelings, and eventually lead to physical and emotional stress and other psychological problems, thereby also affecting a person's performance of daily activities.

The signs (or symptoms) of depression include physical weakness, irritability, delayed psychomotor skills (e.g. sluggish movements), feelings of sadness, psychomotor agitation (e.g. restlessness, pacing up and down), loss of energy, tiredness, loss of sexual desires, reduced appetite and weight loss, the behavior of anger over little occurring matters, social isolation, reluctance, inability to think, focus or concentrate, headaches, and recurring thoughts of suicide.

Diagnosis of depression starts with a consultation with a psychological specialist. It is advisable and important to seek the aid of a health expert to rule out different causes of depression, ensure an accurate differential diagnosis, or conduct a physical examination to check for physical causes and coexisting conditions resulting from depression and also secure safe and effective treatment.

The exact cause of depression is not known, but certain realistic factors and events trigger the occurrence of depression. These include the death of a close relation, financial instability, low level of personality, educational hardship, abuse of substance, chronic illness, divorce, boredom, family conflicts, sexual/gender abuse, trauma, and occurrence of crisis in a relationship.

To prevent and eradicate depression in one's life, strategies can be adopted and set. These include engaging in recreational activities like football, strolling, and gymnastics, getting enough sleep, socializing with friends and family members, being optimistic and positive by keeping good and positive thoughts and expectations, psychotherapy which features discussing a problem with a therapist, either individually or in groups, and administration of anti-depressant medications.