Depression, Suicide: Do Not Struggle in Silence

By Dr. Manisha Singhal in Psychiatry

Sep 10, 2020

Depression is a hidden disease. It manifests differently in different people.

Unhappiness is one of the most common psychological complaint which often signifies the presence of Depression.

What is Depression?

Depression is not the same as feeling low. It is much more complicated. It’s persistent sadness along with loss of interest in routine activities causing impairment in life.

Types of Depression –

There are various kinds of depression like mild depression, moderate depression, severe depression, chronic depression, Atypical depression, Bipolar/Maniac depression, seasonal affective depression.

Hallmarks of Depression –

Hopelessness, despair, negative views about oneself.

Symptoms of Depression –

Increased or decreased appetite and sleep, fatigue, alcohol consumption, smoking, drug addiction, aggression and irritability, forced happiness, pessimism, lack of concentration and focus, etc.

Extreme state of Depression is generally connected with suicide. Suicide is preventable. We should never leave a person alone If someone threatens to kill themselves. Whoever commits suicide always gives some hints.

Suicidal Behaviour Disorder –

There’s a disorder called Suicidal Behaviour Disorder which is characterized by attempted suicide within the past two years and does not include behaviors such as suicidal ideation and non-suicidal, self-injurious behavior.

• Suicidal Attempt – A deliberate, self-destructive act with a clear expectation of death that’s non-fatal.
• Suicidal Ideation – Thinking about, considering, or making plans for suicide.
• Non-Suicidal, Self-Injury – An act of self-harm that is not intended to result in death.

Some warning signs-

A person makes plans to prepare for death.Shows despair, become withdrawn and moody, avoids spending time with family and friends, acts recklessly, takes risks, dramatic change in weight, lashes out at loved ones, and has morbid suicidal thoughts.

As per WHO –

• 61% Indians are experiencing mental health related issues during this Lockdown.
• Suicide is the second leading cause of death in the age group of 15-29 years.
• Women are more affected by mental health issues than men.
• According to the Indian Psychiatry Society, there’s a 20% rise in mental health issues affecting at least 1 in 5 people.

Causes of Suicide –

1. Social Stigma – one of the major causes of high suicidal rate in India. People find it difficult to talk about their struggles or to share their sorrows and challenges and avoid seeking professional advice.
2. Having a family history of suicide is also responsible up to some extent.
3. Having some major psychiatric or psychological disorders like schizophrenia, bipolar or mood disorders in some cases also results in Suicide.
4. Significant losses in a person’s life like a loved one, employment, relationship.
5. Unbearable emotional or Physical pain.
6. Long-term difficulties in relationships or in adjusting with family or friends.
7. Substance Abuse is another reason for depression.

The feeling of fear, anxiety, and hopelessness is hovering over us in this lockdown. There seems to be the absence of hope, however, situations do not remain the same and one should have an optimistic view towards life. If one suspects of being suffering from depression, they should seek out professional help.

Solutions –

• Seek professional help- One should not hesitate in taking an unbiased opinion from a Psychologist, Psychotherapist, or a counselor.
• Ask direct questions – Avoiding the topic is not a solution, if you suspect someone to be depressed or suicidal, find out if they have considered committing suicide and if they have thought out how and when they want to do it. This way they can be provided professional help.
• Recognizing their agony helps to ease the distress of carrying the burden of pain alone. It is important to listen to what somebody has to say without passing judgment on their feelings.
• Some therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, interpersonal therapy, talk therapy, relaxation therapy help a lot.
• One should not always look for some complicated medical solution, at times simple solutions work better than the complex ones.
• Routine Exercises, Yoga, or any workout as per the person’s interest and stamina also adds a little positivity.
• Indulging into any hobby e.g. painting, drawing, dance, reading, music, craft, etc is like a small window in a pitch dark room.
• Listen to the person patiently without any advice works at times.

If you need help we are here for you, do not struggle in silence!