Depression
Disclaimer:
This blog is made for informative purposes and is NOT meant to diagnose. If you believe that you, or any teenager close to you, is
suffering from depression, we encourage that you seek help from a mental health professional.
What is depression?
Depression is a mental disorder that usually causes loss of interest in activities you once liked participating in and it causes negative mood changes. Unlike sadness, depression is more of a long term thing and you know…a disorder. Whereas sadness is a normal feeling of unhappiness in response to grieving, disappointment or even an unpleasant situation.
Types of depressions
•Bipolar disorder
Associated with episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.
•Bipolar II disorder
A type of bipolar disorder characterised by depressive and hypo-manic episodes. Depressive episodes from this type of disorder can last to 2 weeks.
•Persistent depressive disorder
A mild but long-term form of depression.
•Postpartum depression
This is depression that happens after childbirth
Depression can look like anything.
Here are some ways to recognize depression:
5 Signs of depression
-Increasing social isolation
-Showing feelings of helplessness
-Continuous low mode or sadness
-Being irritable of others
-Little or no enjoyment to the things you once liked
“The saddest people are always the nicest because they don’t want other people to feel how they feel”
-Robin Williams
Ways to look after yourself
Journaling:
Many people find it therapeutic to keep a journal as a way to let feelings out. It can also help you keep track of your emotions allowing you to understand them more.
Finding help:
Talking to someone about your mental health can feel scary but we have information and advice that can really help. If you are going through depression many things can help and there is someone who will help. Childline Helpline: 0800 055 555
SADAG Mental Health Helpline (24hrs): 0800 456 789
SADAG Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
Try to stay active:
Most people find that exercising can help improve their mood. You may find it challenging when you’re depressed so you can start with taking small walks. Along with improving your mood exercise can also be a good distraction and help if you struggle with falling asleep at night
Setting small goals:
We have found that making small tasks on a list can help you feel like you’ve accomplished something and helps you see that you’re doing the best you can, which can be very helpful in boosting your self esteem. That could be setting really small achievable goals such as getting dressed, cleaning, going for a walk etc. And often times you find the you might not be able to complete those certain tasks but it’s okay. As long as you tried.
Conclusion
Depression is more common than you think and therefore it should not be a taboo topic. It is real and it is something you should not be embarrassed about. The more a person is comfortable sharing their experience with depression the better.
