Depression is real [2]

We have been made to believe that certain illnesses must be hidden from the public and kept as a family secret. Mental illnesses happen to be one of them.

The average man on the street has only one word for all mental issues, madness! That a family member is “mad” is not up for general discussion. No, not in Africa; at least not in Nigeria. We therefore, choose to suffer in silence.

The human mind and indeed mental health has its complexities and cannot be understood by a novice. There are people that go to school, spend years on end to acquire knowledge concerning the science and workings of the mind; these are experts in the field and should be consulted.

Depression is not schizophrenia and the uneducated in this field might not know the difference.

However, depression is a serious condition and should be treated with utmost caution.

How do I know that I have depression? If you can identify with at least 40% of these symptoms, you should book an appointment to see an expert.

Depression affects the feelings, thoughts and behaviors of the individual.

There is an intense feeling of hopelessness and sadness; moodiness and bursts of anger. A steady withdrawal from all social groups, all of a sudden you don’t want to be in the company of family and friends.

Aside these ugly feelings, the thought life are affected. There are harmful thoughts, lack of concentration, irrational decisions can be made at this point.

At this point, the individual experiences loss of appetite, weight loss or weight gain, depending on the body type. The sleep and sexual patterns are affected. Lethargy sets in.

The individual experiencing despair, might begin to entertain suicidal thoughts.

Are you experiencing some of these symptoms? Have you ever experienced them? I am unqualified to tell you that you might be suffering from depression, but there are people that can. Visit a Counselor, Psychologist or Psychiatrist today, and know your status. Don’t wait till it’s too late for anyone to help. Find help today!

Auntybspeaks.com gud to talk!