Do you sometimes feel bored with everything, don't feel like doing anything, and feel a huge emptiness in your heart? Do you no longer have any interest in the things you used to enjoy? Don't think that you are alone in fighting these feelings. If we take ten people among us, about one in ten may have this condition called depression . So this is nothing to be ashamed of at all.
Simply put, what is depression?
Depression is not just a feeling of sadness. Sadness is a normal part of life. But depression is a deeper state that lasts for weeks, even months. It is a condition that affects your thoughts, feelings, behavior, and even your body.
Imagine, you have a friend named Nimali. She used to be a very cheerful and cheerful person. But for the past few months, she has been less talkative, staying at home, and reluctant to go to work. She says she can't sleep at night, but she's just tired during the day. She's also eating less. These can be common symptoms of depression.
The important thing is that depression is not a weakness or something you can imagine. It is a real health condition that can be best managed with treatment.
How to get help in Sri Lanka?
You may be wondering, "If I had something like this, who would I tell? Where would I start?" Don't worry, there are several ways to get help.
1. Your Family Doctor (GP): The best first thing you can do is to visit your regular doctor, who knows you well, and explain your situation. He or she can do a basic examination and determine if this is depression or another physical condition. If necessary, he or she can refer you to a specialist.
2. Consultant Psychiatrist: You can get proper treatment for this by visiting psychiatric clinics in government hospitals or by meeting a specialist psychiatrist in person. Many of these services are available free of charge in government hospitals.
3. Counseling: In some cases, in addition to a psychiatrist, seeking the help of a qualified counselor can be very helpful.
Most importantly: It's never too late to ask for help. Sharing your burden with someone else is the first step to healing.
What are the treatments for depression?
There are very effective treatments for depression. There are two main types of treatment that are commonly used. Sometimes both can be used together.
| Treatment method | Simply put, what is that? |
|---|---|
| Psychotherapy | This is also called 'talk therapy'. Here, you talk about your feelings, thoughts, and problems with a trained professional (a psychiatrist or counselor). This helps you understand the reasons why you are feeling this way and build the strength you need to deal with it. |
| Medication | Depression can also be caused by an imbalance in certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain. Medications prescribed by a doctor can correct this imbalance and improve your mood. These medications are not addictive. However , do not start or stop taking them without medical advice. |
The support of your family and friends
Along with treatment, the support of your family and close friends is also very important. Talk to those who love you about your feelings. Help them understand you. Knowing that you are not alone is a great strength in the healing journey.
Don't be afraid, remember these things.
Many people are afraid to ask for help because there are still misconceptions about depression in society. But keep these facts in mind.
- Depression is not your fault: it is a medical condition that needs to be treated, just like diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Asking for help is a sign of strength: Admitting that you need help is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign of a strong person who thinks for themselves.
- Treatment has results: With the right treatment, you can live your life happily and normally again. It takes time, but it is possible.
- Your care is confidential: Your doctor is committed to keeping everything you discuss with him or her confidential, so feel free to discuss your concerns.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. So don't carry your burdens alone. Take the first step by asking for help today.
Take-Home Message
- Depression is more than just feeling sad and is a real illness that requires treatment.
- You are not alone. This is a very common condition, and there is no need to be ashamed or afraid of it.
- In Sri Lanka, medical advice and treatment for this can be easily obtained from the government or private sector.
- Seeing your family doctor (GP) is the first and best step in getting help.
- Depression can be managed very successfully through psychotherapy and medication. It is very important to follow medical advice.
- Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign that you are a strong person who cares about your well-being.
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