Feeling sad occasionally due to sudden and unexpected incidents is natural and however depression is something more that just feeling occasional sadness. In case of prolonged depression It can impact any individual’s daily life significantly. It just not ruins the daily life of a person and but also can cause physical health issues in severe cases and also can destroy the relationships of a person. But fortunately this illness is treatable.
Depression affects different individual differently, thus the symptoms can also differ in people with depression. However we can notice some common symptoms of depression in most of the people, that are mentioned here -
· Sadness or feelings of emptiness that doesn’t go easily.
· Feelings of helplessness.
· Feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness
· Anger and irritability.
· Difficulty concentrating.
· Fatigue.
· Restlessness.
· Difficulty in sleeping or changes in sleep patterns.
· Appetite changes.
· Chronic pain, headaches or body aches.
· Loss of interest in activities.
· Withdrawal from friends and family.
· Thoughts of death or suicide.
Myths about Depression
Some common myths and facts about depression are mentioned here -
Myth 1 - Depression is not a real Medical Problem.
Fact - It can have both physical and emotional indications and make life exceptionally difficult for the individuals who have it.
Myth 2 - People with depression can snap out of it, if they really want to.
Fact - The vast majority of individuals with depression would like nothing more the to feel better. But they can't. No matter how hard they try.
Myth 3 - Antidepressants are addictive.
Fact - Antidepressants don't require successive dose increments to keep up a certain impact, and they don't cause the client to crave them.
How Counselling can help overcome depression
Depression is treatable but it is not something that someone can just snap out immediately. Although medication can reduce symptoms and help with depressive mood disorders but with the help of counselling and therapy the treatment can be more effective.
People may feel hesitation in seeking professional help like therapy and counseling for such mental health issues, due to the stigma related with it and it is considered a sign of weakness, but hiding only increases this illness like any other health issue.
Depression counselling is considered to be very effective treatment, either alone or in combination with medications. The benefits of counselling may have lasting effect that protects a person against any symptoms returning even after the treatment is over.