Thursday, August 14, 2014

Depression

Depression is a underdiagnosed and seldom overlooked health problem. The symptoms of depression include loss of appetite, loss of weight, loss of interest in daily activities or activities which used to interest them, feeling of malaise and lethargy, feeling of worthlessness, despair, extreme sadness and impending doom. Also having the feeling of a life not worth living.

The thing is.... just like other invisible illnesses, the person suffering from depression usually suffers alone. No one else knows the depth of despair and hopelessness that a person with depression goes through. No one will ever understand. Also, there is still plenty of stigma associated with depression, especially in the Asian countries- causing very few people to seek professional advice and medical treatment for depression. People battling depression are often judged by others. A person suffering from depression is not a terrible person-he/she just needs help, and a shoulder to lean on.

So often we are so caught up in ourselves and our own lives that we fail to reach out to friends that need our help. We often underestimate the power of an encouraging word or a sympathetic ear to listen. We as humans are often so quick to criticize and judge others and slow to encourage. An encouraging word could actually save a life!!!!!

Is there anyone out there who is clinically depressed today? Please do seek professional help. Do not be ashamed, it's not your fault you feel that way, and you need help to help you overcome this.

Or do you know of anyone who is depressed? Please do reach out to them before it's too late.

Even the rich and famous are not immune from this illness.

RIP Robin Williams you will be missed....