What is Depression?

Depression is a common mental disorder that may lead to a loss of interest in activities, hobbies, and other daily routine tasks. 

Depression is also characterized by feelings of sadness and loneliness. Severe depression can also cause a variety of emotional and physical problems which may be dangerous to health and life. A depressed person may also encounter suicidal thoughts in his mind.

Causes of Depression

1. Death or loss of closed ones

One of the major causes of depression is the sudden death of family members or close ones. Holding on to such feelings of sadness and grief for a long time can trigger depression and make existing depression worse. 

2. Substance abuse

Smoking and alcoholism is substance abuse

The next common cause of depression is substance abuse. As a matter of fact, 30% of people who are addicted to substances have major or clinical depression. In case you feel that you are addicted to drugs and alcohol and want to get rid of them, it is time to take the first step and consult a psychiatrist or a counselor immediately.

 3. Environmental factors

Whether you agree or not, synthetic chemicals like food additives and preservatives, pesticides, hormones and drugs, genetically modified foods are damaging our bodies. Such activities may also lead to depression. In fact, research suggests that electrical pollution (electromagnetic-field energy emanating from electrical wiring) may lead to mood disorders as well.

4. Traumatic Events and Conflicts

Traumatic life events such as losing a job and income, breakups, failing in exams, or getting divorced may also lead to depression. Hence, if you have gone through any traumatic event, and are feeling depressed about it, meet a counselor right away. Similarly, if you are facing depression due to personal conflicts or flight with family and friends, meeting a counselor is advisable. 

Symptoms of Depression

1. Sadness and Loneliness

Do you often feel sad and lonely? Are you showing physical symptoms, including changes in sleep and appetite? If yes, then you might be suffering from depression. 

2. Tension and Stress

Tension and stress are other common symptoms of depression. If you feel frustrated, stressed, and worried throughout the day, then you might be suffering from depression. If you overlook this, it may affect your physical health as well. The first step towards reducing tension and stress is to practice relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation regularly. 

3. Anxiety

Anxiety is another symptom of depression in which you may worry and have fear about day-to-day life situations. Anxiety can be characterized by fast heart rate, rapid breathing, sweating, and feeling tired.

4. Loss of interest or Inactivity

Loss of interest in activities, hobbies, and other day-to-day tasks is also a symptom of depression. 

5. Suicidal Thoughts

Suicidal thoughts are another common symptom of depression. 

Conclusion

Dealing with depression alone can be difficult. If you are not comfortable speaking with your family members or close ones, reaching out to a counsellor or a trained mental health professional can help you deal with the symptoms of depression and help you grow out of it. 

Article source: https://thedigitalskipper.com/it-companies-in-chennai/