DEALING WITH DEPRESSION

We are advancing and evolving at an unbelievable speed. Life is faster, easier and more comfortable now. But this advancement of the human race has come at a terrible cost. We have lost our peace of mind. Irrespective of age, gender or social class, we are facing the bane of depression quite frequently.

Let us understand the reason behind this mental condition. Psychologically speaking, when we are faced with adverse situations, our mind works hard to handle the situation and preserve its integrity, calling forth all available resources at its disposal. However, if the adversity persists or the situation is an overwhelming one, these resources are soon exhausted and the mind goes spirally into an abyss called depression. However, the number of resources at hand varies from person to person. Someone with more resources is naturally more resistant to depression.

Biologically, any mental disorder can be explained as a function of dysfunctioning brain circuits. There is an imbalance of chemicals (known as neurotransmitters) in these brain circuits, thus causing a disruption in their normal functioning. The byproduct of such haywire networking is depression.


The question we are eternally asking ourselves is how to deal with depression. On that note I would say prevention is always better than cure. Following a healthy lifestyle pattern can do you a world of good. And it is absurdly simple. Just respect your biological rhythm. Keep regular meal times and bedtime. Indulge in physical exercise and mentally engaging hobbies on a daily basis. Cut down on internet time and recreational drugs. And take time to rewind and relax, despite your busy schedule.

When in the middle of depression, you need to act promptly. Seek help immediately. Depression has a nasty tendency to spiral out of control rapidly. Find a psychiatrist you will be comfortable visiting on a regular basis and follow his/her advice to the T. It is important to take the medicines on time and without fail. You may feel better after a few days and be tempted to discontinue them. But that is a mistake you will regret heavily. Medications need to be taken at prescribed doses for the entire duration advised by your doctor. Failing to do so invariably causes a relapse. Tamper with the pills at your own risk! There is often a tendency to self-medicate in depression with recreational substances like alcohol and weed. Though widely known for their immediate euphoric effects, in the long run these agents will worsen the depression and might cause additional problems like hallucinations. If you are having suicidal thoughts, do not keep it to yourself. Share it with your loved ones and your psychiatrist immediately. You will lack the motivation to get out of bed and go about your daily chores. But it is important to eat, sleep and shower on time despite your condition. It hastens the recovery process.

Remember, depression is a treatable mental condition. With proper treatment, it is only a matter of time before you bounce back!


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