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Much has been spoken about depression. If you are consistently feeling down, upset, anxious, unable to connect with people or share things, then it is a red flag. Some of the other symptoms could be unable to take decisions, feeling angry, being in a state of unhappiness and not able to enjoy to perform everyday activities with excitement and fervor.
If the feeling sustains, it can lead to self-harm or suicide. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, one has heard of many cases of depression and suicide; because of loss of work and financial problems.
First and foremost, we have to understand that we have to learn to take care of our physical and mental state of being. Depression can make you introverted and cut you from the world. Some people also resort to substance abuse. But one has to remember that feelings are momentary and we have to learn to take help. It might sound difficult, and we do feel very lonely at times in this selfish world.
Also, we have been given lofty goals and targets to achieve. For many in life, just finding the right partner, the right career path, getting along with family and taking care of children; can sound overwhelming at times. Things don’t always work out the way we want. Look at things and goals as a challenge and not a problem.
Also, do not aim for things which are completely out of reach. Set small goals and try to achieve them.
A simple solution is always to cultivate a good set of friends and be connected with your family. Seek help from a Clinical Psychologist or a Psychiatrist as the case maybe.
Symptoms of Depression
*You lose interest in whatever you do
*Feel low and upset most of the time
*Lose enthusiasm
*Cannot focus on your work and take simple decisions
*Losing confidence and self-esteem
As per Neerja Birla, founder and Chairperson of Mpower, an organisation that works towards tackling mental health issues among the youth says, “ Mental illness goes undiagnosed and untreated. There are many misconceptions in our society and a lack of information and awareness. People feel that it is something to be ashamed of and this further propagates stigma and secretiveness. We need to tackle the problem at the minute levels.”
India adopted the Mental Health Act a few years ago. This law enshrines various benefits for mentally ill individuals and seeks to protect their dignity and privacy during the period of their treatment.
Tips to handle your anxiety and depression
Tip1: Talk to someone
Just pick up the phone and talk it out to your friend, co-worker, wife/husband or parents. Find an outlet to whatever is bothering you. A good listener can be a very good friend and advisor.
Participate in social activities. Spend time with your pets. Do some social work. Overall, try to stay connected with people.
Tip2: Find out what makes you happy
Exercise –Do Yoga, Dance it out or simply sweat it out at the gym. Yoga ad Pranayama can go a long way in helping you deal with depression.
Cultivate a hobby, Listen to music, play a sport.
Take care of your health. Eat right, meditate and pray.
Overcome negative thoughts
When you are depressed, your mind will be packed with negative thoughts and events from the past. Learn to let go and forgive people.
Were you cheated by your business partner? Are you going through a divorce? Have you lost your job? But negative thoughts are not going to help you.
Find people who motivate you. Read success stories and people who rose from rag to riches. Look at people who are not as fortunate as we are. They could be living in slums, they could be orphans or handicapped.
Find two things which are positive in your life. Thank god for it and be grateful. Do not compare yourself to others. You are unique and find out your strengths and weaknesses.
Each day is a challenge. Being happy is a journey, a state of mind. It is not a destination. Do not wait for it. Look for it in small things.
Tip3: Avoid substance abuse
Having a drink or two is ok. But do not resort to substance abuse. It’s an addiction that might take you down a dark alley. Instead, head for a walk early morning an soak in the sunrays. Also, get enough sleep.
Tip4: Take professional help
The above tips are just for you to manage yourself better and be happy. Remember, nobody is else can take charge of how you feel or handle your thoughts. Read good thoughts everyday. Thoughts can affect our feelings and the way we look at things in life.
If all this doesn’t work please do seek help. Consult a Clinical Psychologist.
1) Vandrevala Foundation for Mental Health – 1860-2662-345 / 1800-2333-330 (24 hours)
2) TISS iCall – 022-25521111 (Monday-Saturday: 8 am to 10 pm)
