When the blues don't go away

Do you feel like life is about to end? Have you lost all hope? You feel sad and restless all the time? You don't enjoy social gatherings and are unable to sleep, work, eat and function? If this feeling persists for a long period of time then you might be suffering from depression. One in every ten women experiences depression at some point of her lifetime. The prevalence of depression in women is twice as that of men. Depression begins at a young age and is the prime cause of diseases and disabilities in Indian women. But the good news is that depression can be treated if discovered on time. Developing understanding about depression will help you to deal with it. What is depression? Depression is a serious mood disorder which causes you to feel sad, hopeless, helpless and worthless. The level of depression may vary from mild to intense. It adversely affects your social life, your professional life, relationships and most importantly, your self-worth. What are the probable causes of depression? Depression doesn't occur for any sole reason. It may arise due to combination of various factors:

1. Women with a family history of depression are more likely to have depression.
2. Hormonal fluctuations at puberty, periods and menopause.
3. Infertility.
4. Abortions.
5. Post-delivery changes and weakness.
6. Relationship issues.
7. Family pressure.
8. Living in a negative environment.
9. Work pressure and stress.
10. Anxiety towards one's own looks.

What are the signs and symptoms of depression?

1. Gloomy mood
2. Lack of interest in the activities that would earlier give pleasure
3. Feeling of worthlessness
4. Guilt
5. Lack of sleep
6. Changes in appetite
7. Inability to concentrate
8. Lack of energy
9. In an extreme case person has a constant low feeling with suicidal thoughts

How can depression be treated or prevented? Depression is curable and can be prevented with:

1. Any form of physical exercise such as yoga, aerobics, or playing sports.
2. Dietary changes recommended by a qualified dietician.
3. Stress reduction - Getting involved in activities that give pleasure or engaging in hobbies.
4. Psychotherapy
5. Meditation
6. Support groups
7. Antidepressants (Drugs should be taken only if prescribed by a doctor).

If you are feeling miserable, sad, and hopeless or down in dumps, for extended period of time, it could be depression. Do not ignore or consider depression as a mild medical condition. It may affect your life adversely. There are a range of treatments. But you need to start with the treatment as soon as possible. Never try to face your depression alone. Find someone to talk and share whatever you feel when you are depressed.