Is depression a real disease or an illusion of our mental weakness?
Have you ever found yourself grappling with depression?
There would hardly be any person who has never suffered any kind of depression in his life. Most of us go through ups and downs in life. Life has its happy and sad moments. Sometimes, the sadness or anxiety can grow so much that it turns into depression.
I’ve been through it myself, grappling with something called depression. But, in the small towns of India where I come from, there’s no need for fancy doctors to tackle this. A good scolding from family is the secret weapon. I know it seems strange, but true and it works.
Picture this: instead of therapy sessions, it’s stern words from your folks that shake off the blues. It might sound odd, but in those scoldings, there’s a hidden kind of love, the kind that’s with you through thick and thin. Here in small-town India, you’ve got doctors for every body part, but hardly any for the mind. I mean Psychiatrists.
But, on a serious note, today, depression is a significant and growing concern. In recent years, mental health issues have surged, particularly among the youth, marked by an alarming increase in stress and depression cases. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 280 million people worldwide grapple with depression, with women experiencing it about 50% more than men. Shockingly, over 700,000 people lose their lives to suicide annually, making it the fourth leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds.
In Developed Nations like the United States, the numbers are equally unsettling. The percentage of adults diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives has soared to 29.0%, almost 10 percentage points higher than in 2015. Additionally, the percentage of Americans currently battling or receiving treatment for depression has risen to 17.8%, a seven-point increase over the same period. These figures, reported by Gallup, represent the highest rates recorded since the inception of depression measurement in 2015.
What is Depression?
Depressive disorder, also known as depression, is a common mental health issue. It makes you feel really down or lose interest in things you used to enjoy for a long time. Depression isn’t just the usual ups and downs we all feel; it can affect your whole life, including your relationships with family, friends, and the community. It can even cause problems at school or work, making things challenging. So, understanding depression means recognizing that it’s more than just the usual changes in how we feel, but something that can deeply impact different parts of our daily life.
Depression manifests through a range of symptoms, often persisting for extended periods. Common signs include persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. It’s essential to recognize these symptoms, as depression often follows patterns, with episodes of low mood, withdrawal, and heightened emotional distress. Understanding these signs is crucial for early identification and seeking appropriate support.
In the battle against depression, when we try to find solutions, we come across many opinions. Establishing a support network, engaging in regular physical activity, adopting a balanced diet, and ensuring sufficient sleep are fundamental lifestyle elements. Additionally, mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can provide relief. Seeking therapy or counseling, and, in some cases, considering medication prescribed by a healthcare professional, etc.
But is depression really such a big problem, or is it just a feeling that makes our everyday challenges seem overwhelming? We all face problems, but some folks let these troubles get the best of them, leading to depression. So, it’s essential not to let small issues get us down. Keeping a calm mind, no matter the situation, is key to living peacefully. Let me share a story that relates to dealing with this issue of depression.
A 50-year-old man found himself trapped in the clutches of depression. Concerned for her husband, his wife sought help from a counselor who, after a thoughtful assessment, decided to take a unique approach. The counselor, after some personal discussions, asked the man’s wife to step outside.
In the counseling room, the gentleman poured out his troubles — the weight of job stress, worries about children’s education, and the burden of loans for a house and car. He confessed feeling like an empty cannon, lacking ammunition in the face of life’s challenges.
To unravel the layers of his life, the counselor had a peculiar idea. He asked, ‘Where did you go to school for your 10th grade?’ The man provided the school’s name, and the counselor advised him to return to that school. His mission? Retrieve the 10th-grade register, track down old classmates, and note their life updates in a diary. The gentleman was to return after a month.
With great determination, he dove into the task, facing hurdles but managing to collect information about 70–75 classmates. What he discovered was astonishing — 15 were no more, 5 were widowed, and 12 had faced divorce. There were 10 struggling with drug addiction, and some were so poor it was heartbreaking, while others were unbelievably wealthy.
Some battled illnesses like cancer, paralysis, diabetes, asthma, or heart conditions. A few were bedridden due to accidents. Children faced mental health issues, were wandering, or were deemed ‘useless.’ One was behind bars, another settling down at 52 and contemplating a third marriage despite two divorces.
As the 10th-grade register unveiled the diverse destinies of his classmates, the counselor asked, ‘Now, how’s your depression?’ The realization struck — he wasn’t starving, his family was healthy, no legal troubles, and he hadn’t sought treatment in a hospital.
In that moment, the man comprehended the vast spectrum of human struggles. He found solace in the simplicity of his life, realizing he was genuinely fortunate and content amidst the world’s hardships.
Much like the person in our story, we all grapple with life’s challenges. It’s essential to recognize that while our problems are real, there are many out there facing even bigger hurdles. Yet, not everyone succumbs to depression. So, why can’t we break free from its grip? Connecting with friends and talking to family members can make a world of difference. Step out of the digital realm and engage with the people around you. You’d be surprised how many might hold the key to your struggles.
During the global lockdown caused by the Covid pandemic, many found themselves battling depression due to isolation. However, in my own experience, spending that time at home with my family became an unexpected source of strength. We talked, played games, and shared household chores, deepening our bonds. This period brought us closer, fostering open conversations about our problems and collaborative solutions. In India and South Asian countries, where joint families are prevalent, this collective approach to problem-solving has contributed to lower instances of depression. Together, we navigate challenges, supporting each other through thick and thin.
Depression may not be a visible illness, but its impact on our well-being is real. It’s important to recognize that our thoughts can sometimes make it feel more serious than it is. To tackle mental health challenges like stress and depression, embracing positivity and focusing on good sleep, a nutritious diet, and enjoyable activities are key. Prioritizing 6–8 hours of sleep is crucial, as sleep troubles often link to stress. Engaging in regular yoga and meditation can be valuable practices in safeguarding our mental health. Remember, in the journey of life, building strong connections with loved ones, embracing positivity, and taking care of our mental well-being can be powerful tools in overcoming the shadows of depression.
Also Read: Mental Peace: Redirect Your Thoughts to Achieve Stability and Joy
