Awareness about depression is increasing in recent time. The prevalence of depression is about 4-5% in general population. The cause of depression range from temperamental factors to environmental factors to genetic factors.

Common presenting symptoms of depression are:

– Low mood or sadness of mood most time of the day and most days of the week. The person may himself say that he is feeling sad or it may be evident from his facial expressions that his mood is low.

– Decreased interest in previously pleasurable activities. The person may not feel like watching T.V. or reading books or newspaper or going out with friends which he previously used to enjoy.

– Loss of energy. The person may feel like being on bed most times of the day. He may feel lethargic and avoid doing any physical work.

– Decreased concentration. The person may feel mentally fatigued and not be able to concentrate in his routine work or studies.

– Sleep disturbance.

– Decreased appetite. The person may not feel like eating food. However, some patients may eat more while in depressive phase.

– Feeling of guilt and unworthiness. The person may feel that he is responsible for any mishappening or unhappy things happening to anyone around him. He may feel hopeless for the future, may feel helpless and worthless.

– Irritability. The person may get angry and irritable easily on small small things.

– Suicidal thoughts and gestures. The person may feel like committing suicide and may attempt to do so. The self harm attempt is not merely to scare others but to actually end one’s life.

WHAT SHOULD BE DONE

Consult a psychiatrist if you or any person you know is suffering from these symptoms. Depression can be treated after proper diagnosis and proper advice from your psychiatrist.