Dealing with the Blues

That’s the thing about depression: A human being can survive almost anything, as long as s/he sees the end in sight. But depression is so insidious, and it compounds daily, that it’s impossible to ever see the end. The fog is like a cage without a key.
—Elizabeth Wurtzel

Nobody in this world can claim to be happy all the time and never to have been down in the dump.

Few people understand that depression is not a temporary state of mind where you feel low and then “get over it” eventually. That temporary low state of mind is like multitudes of other feelings we experience – joy, anger, jealousy, envy, happiness, love. They come and go like the tide.

True depression is much more deep-rooted, all-consuming and might become dangerous if ignored. A person going through depression is unable to function through daily routine like they used to. They may put up a normal appearance, go about their chores and work etc., and might seem normal on the surface. However, in their own heads they are disintegrating to pieces. Not being able to stay genuinely normal or cheerful is adding to their guilt and depression. It is like a vicious circle.

The reasons for undergoing depression vary and need individual attention to deal with root causes. We all need to be aware and alert about the symptoms and learn to recognize them in people around us as well as ourselves. You might be under depression and not even realize it. Society teaches us and conditions us to be altruistic, to be a hero. But taking care of you is most important. If you are not fit and healthy, how do you expect to take care of others around you?

Being depressed doesn’t make anyone weak. It is only human. They need help and support. If it is a deep-rooted depression, they may need expert medical assistance. There is nothing to be ashamed of. The feeling of being judged as weak and mentally ill keeps people away from timely help.

Symptoms of depression:

1. Feeling hopeless and helpless
2. Losing interest in daily activities which used to bring you happiness or comfort
3. Increase or start of excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, substance abuse or general reckless behavior
4. All-time easy tasks are suddenly difficult or tiresome
5. Feeling tired and listless all the time
6. Sleeping and eating patterns have changed. You have either started over-eating or lost all appetite. Also, either you have become an insomniac or you tend to sleep too much
7. No matter what you do, you cannot get rid of the negativity.
8. Becoming angry for no reason, losing perspective of situations and over-reacting. Getting irritated or aggressive at the drop of a hat

There are rising number of suicides due to depression and loneliness. If these people had received some tender care, a listening ear and timely health check, they may still be living among us today. Have you lost someone to depression, anxiety or loneliness? Be aware and be alert to spot someone who may need your help. If you recognize any of these symptoms for yourself, reach out and talk it out. Don’t try to be too brave, it doesn’t always work.

Many times, all that a depressed person needs is to vent out and let go of all their insecurities. Just because you know them as a strong and brave person, don’t take them for granted. Strong and independent people also have weak days. Would you rather leave them alone to deal with it? Would you rather be judgmental because they can’t cope up with their low phase of life? You could be in their place someday.

Humans are the most complicated creatures on our planet. A standard set of rules or behavioral pattern cannot fit everyone. We all are unique. We are all special. And we are social animals; we cannot survive neglect. Let us help each other to help ourselves. Life is too beautiful to waste over a passing phase and a few social stereotypes.