Depression is more than temporary sadness and can have a serious impact on both mental and physical health. While the condition is treatable, its symptoms and severity can vary from person to person.
Health experts say irritability, changes in sleep and appetite, loss of interest in daily activities and persistent fatigue can all be signs of depression.
Depression is a mental health condition that can affect a person’s mood, thoughts, behaviour and ability to manage everyday life. It can also have an impact on physical wellbeing.
Experts caution against dismissing depression as temporary sadness or a lack of strength, stressing that it is a serious condition that requires timely attention, appropriate treatment and support from loved ones.
Mental health expert Dr Hamza Hussain said depression is also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression.
People experiencing the condition may feel prolonged sadness, emptiness or hopelessness, while losing interest or pleasure in activities they previously enjoyed.
In some cases, symptoms can become severe enough to affect a person’s work, education, family life and social relationships.
Experts say there is no single cause of depression. The condition can develop through a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors.
Genetic predisposition, circumstances during pregnancy involving the mother or child, maternal mental health, childhood experiences, prolonged stress, family and social environment, upbringing and ongoing life difficulties can increase the risk of depression. Work-related pressure and persistent worries may also contribute to the condition in some people.
Depression is treatable, but there is no single treatment approach that works for everyone. Mental health professionals assess a person’s symptoms, their severity and overall circumstances before recommending an appropriate treatment plan.
While some people may experience improvement within a relatively short period, others may require long-term treatment and regular follow-up.
Family members and friends can also play an important role in supporting someone with depression. Rather than dismissing their problems or telling them that they simply need to be more courageous, it can be more helpful to listen carefully and try to understand what they are going through.
Experts recommend encouraging people experiencing depression to seek professional help rather than subjecting them to criticism or additional pressure.
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