Depression is a common mental disorder.It involves a depressed mood or loss of pleasure or interest in activities for long period of time .
Depression is different from regular mood changes and feelings about everyday life .It can affect all aspects of life , including relationship with family,friends and community .It can result from or lead to problem at school and at work . Depression can happen to anyone.People who have lived through abuse,severe losses or other stressful events are more likely to develop depression.Women are likely to have depression than men .
SYMPTOMS AND PATTERNS
During a depressive episode ,a person experience a depressed mood (feeling sad ,irritable empty).They may feel a loss of pleasure or interest in activities.A depressive episode is different from regular mood fluatuations .They last most of the day ,nearly everyday ,for at least two weeks
*poor concentration
*Feelings of excessive guilt or low self worth
*Hopelessness about the future
*Thoughts about dying or suicide
*Disrupted sleep
*Changes in appetite or weight
*Feelings very tired or low in energy
Depression can cause difficulties in all aspects of life , including in the community and at home ,work and school.
A depressive episode can be categorized as mild ,moderate ,or severe depending on the number and severity of symptoms,as well as the impact on the individuals functioning.
PATTERN OF DEPRESSIVE EPISODE
1.Single episode depressive disorder,meaning the person’s first and only episode .
2.Recurrent depressive disorder ,meaning the person has a history of at least two depressive episodes.
3.Bipolar disorder ,meaning that depressive episodes alternate with periods of manic symptoms,which includes euphoria or irritability, increased activity or energy and other symptoms such as increased talkativeness, racing thoughts , increased self -esteem ,decreased need for sleep , distractibility and impulsive reckless behavior.
SELF CARE
Selfcare can play an important role in managing symptoms of depression and promoting overall well-being
*Try to keep doing activities you used to enjoy .
*Talk to someone you trust about your feelings .
*Stay connected to friends and family.
*Exercise regularly,even if it’s just a short walk.
*Stick to regular eating and sleeping habits as much as possible.
*Avoid or cut down on alcohol and don’t use ilicit drugs which can make depression worse.
