Depression happens to both sexes and from youths to adults. Reports shows that cases of depression is increasing at an alarming rate especially on young people. World Health Organization (WHO) says that it is “predominant cause of illness and disability for both boys and girls aged 10-19 years. Most suicidal cases and attempts can be link to depression. People who are depressed usually feels being unloved, worthless, and seems like being stuck in the darkness and no way out for them.
Some people who experience depression are seen with no symptoms at all. They tend to be happy and active when they are with the crowd, but when alone they starts to feel down and like losing who they are. Those who are showing symptoms, which we should take noticed of, and may include changes in their sleep patterns, appetite and attitude towards people around them. They are showing signs of feeling hopeless, worthless, despair, and sadness. Other signs include social withdrawal, trouble concentrating or remembering, suicidal thoughts or actions and medically unexplained symptoms. When mental-health professionals suspect depression, they usually look for groups of symptoms that persist for weeks and that disrupt a person’s everyday life.
POSSIBLE CAUSES OF DEPRESSION
According to WHO “depression results from a complex interaction if social, psychological and biological factors.” These may include of the following:
Physical factors. Depression often runs in families, suggesting that genetics can play a role, perhaps affecting chemical activity in the brain. Other physical risk factors include cardiovascular disease and changing hormone levels, as well as ongoing substance abuse, which may intensify depression, if not give rise to it.
Stress. While a little stress can be healthy, chronic or excessive stress can be physically and psychologically harmful, sometimes to the point of plunging a susceptible, or biologically vulnerable, teen into depression. That said, the exact causes of depression remain unclear and may involve a combination of factors, as mentioned earlier.
Stress-related factors linked to depression may include parental divorce or separation, the death of a loved one, physical or sexual abuse, a serious accident, illness, or a learning disability—especially if a child feels rejected as a result. A related factor may be unrealistically high parental expectations, perhaps in regard to scholastic achievement. Other possible causes are bullying, uncertainty about the future, emotional estrangement by a depressed parent, and parental unpredictability.
WHAT CAN HELP TO COPE DEPRESSION
Moderate to severe depression is usually managed with medication and counseling by a mental-health professional. Jesus Christ said: “Those who are strong do not need a physician, but those who are ill do.” (Mark 2:17) And illness can affect any part of our body, including our brain! Lifestyle changes may also be advisable because our mind and body are closely connected.
If you suffer from depression, take reasonable measures to care for your physical and mental health. For instance, eat wholesome meals, get sufficient sleep, and exercise regularly. Exercise releases chemicals that can lift your mood, increase your energy, and improve your sleep. If possible, try to recognize triggers and early warning signs of a depressive mood and create a suitable plan of action. Confide in someone you trust. A supportive network of close family members and friends may help you to cope more effectively with your depression, possibly reducing symptoms. Record your thoughts and feelings in a journal. Above all, be sure to address your spiritual need. This can greatly improve your outlook on life. Jesus Christ said: “Happy are those conscious of their spiritual need.”—Matthew 5:3
• Recognize that depressed teens may find it hard to express their feelings or may not understand what is happening to them. They may not even be aware of the symptoms of depression.
• Teens tend to express their depression in ways different from those of adults, so be alert to major changes in your child’s behavior, eating habits, moods, sleep patterns, or social interactions—especially if the changes persist for weeks.
• Take seriously any comments or hints regarding suicide.
• If you suspect depression (not just the blues), consider getting a professional diagnosis
• Help them adhere to the doctor’s prescribed treatment, and consult the doctor if you see no improvement or observe unpleasant side effects.
• Have a stable family routine for eating, exercising, and sleeping
• Maintain good communication with your teen, and help him or her to deal with any stigma associated with depression
• Because depression can make one feel alone, ashamed, or worthless, regularly reassure your teen of your love.
Create a “First-Aid Kit” for Your Emotions
If you suffer from depression, a practical suggestion to help you control your thoughts and feelings is to create what has been called an emotional first-aid kit. The kit, which can be adjusted as you see fit, might include the following listed below:
• Contact information of people to call when you feel down
• Favorite songs that are positive and upbuilding
• Inspirational sayings and encouraging articles
• A list of comforting and upbuilding sayings and Bible verses
• Mementos to remind you of people who love you
• A journal containing your positive thoughts as well as positive experiences you have enjoyed
source:jw.org/awake no.1 2017
