The World Health Organization (WHO) recently labeled India as the most depressed country in the world. Depression is one of the leading causes of disability and illness among adolescents. India has an average suicide rate of 10.9 for every lakh people and the majority of those who commit suicide are under the age of 44. In these times of uncertainty, it is important that we take care of our mental health as well as of those around us.
Depression is much more devastating than simply feeling sad and affects both the mind and the body. It affects how people sleep, eat, and see the world. Inability to concentrate, lack of energy, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, or deep feelings of sadness are some of the common symptoms of depression. Most reasons that make you susceptible to depression are reasons you can’t control like your genes, chemicals in your brain, and your environment. For most people, it starts due to a major life change or trauma. It can also happen due to other chronic health problems such as cancer, diabetes, or Parkinson’s disease.
People dealing with mental health challenges during the pandemic may now find themselves:
More likely to pick up infections.
The emotional stress of COVID-19 and social isolation might make their preexisting mental condition worse.
Having difficulty accessing their medications, treatments, or therapy sessions.
Facing unusually intense fear about the spread of COVID-19 and how it can affect their loved ones.
Feeling extremely anxious about their finances.
Feeling uncertain and confused about how to shop for necessities.
Withdrawing more due to social isolation.
Experiencing an increased sense of uncertainty and hopelessness about the future.
What you can do:
Talk to your therapist or doctor about your mental state when feeling low.
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs. It may seem like they are making you feel better. But they actually make it harder to treat your depression.
Take up activities to fight stress, like meditation and yoga.
Spend time with family and friends. Think about joining a support group. Do things that keep you connected to others.
Don’t make big life decisions on a day when you’re feeling low.
Know yourself. Pay close attention to the things that seem to make your symptoms better or worse. Keep notes and inform your doctor or therapist about it.
