It is common to experience low days sometimes, but if the feeling persists for a longer period of time, the person is more likely to be in a state of depression. It is estimated that at least 20% of the population will experience a period of depression at some point so people who are depressed can experience symptoms that vary from person to person and can be mild or severe. Mental health problems start early in life. Half of all mental health problems have been established by the age of 14, rising onwards to 75% by the age of 24. Your condition is ‘long term’ if it lasts, or is likely to last, 12 months.
It might be hard for such people to share their thoughts or feelings with someone because of the fear of being blamed or feel unsure about describing their symptoms. Anxiety and depression can also make people more introverted, withdrawn and isolated. All people with depression may have difficulty sharing their thoughts and feelings.
Social risk factors like exposure to violence, trauma , low support, negligence, poverty , conflict situations can lead to poor mental health. Children who have been neglected are more likely to experience mental health problems including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder
Some of the symptoms for depression and anxiety people are more likely to face generally
- Loss of energy
- Sadness
- Loss of self-confidence
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Not being able to enjoy things that are usually pleasurable
- Feeling anxious
- Feeling hopeless
- Sleeping problems
- Strong feeling of worthlessness
- Self-harm
Depression
Depression in a common mental state problem that affects your everyday life. It causes loss of interest, low self worth and loss of appetite. The most severe depression can be life-threatening because it can make you feel suicidal.
There are some specific types of depression:
- Seasonal affective disorder
Depression that occurs in a specific season or specific time of the year.
- Dysthymia
Persistent depression that lasts for two years or more. Also called chronic depression.
- Prenatal depression
Depression that occurs during pregnancy, called antenatal depression.
- Postnatal depression
Depression that occurs in the first year after giving birth.
Treating depression
Depression can be treated psychologically or medically depending on the severity of the patient. The most important step to getting help and to tell someone they trust, such as a family member, a close friend or any professional. Some people need to visit a therapist with special services due to more complex problems or because they would get any better from psychological therapy.
Realising that someone might be struggling with their mental health and experiencing anxiety or depression can be hard to accept. The most important thing you can do is to reassure the person and not judge them for how they’re feeling.
Following are the basic things or gestures that can help:
- Reassuring them that you are there with them.
- Be more available, try being there in person if possible or call them if necessary.
- Being patient even if their behaviour upsets you.
- Making them realise that their feeling is valid and can be treated.
- Thinking of creative ways to make them feel happy or divert their mind.
Encouraging them to share it with a therapist.