Learn to treat depression seriously

The World Health Organisation says 36 per cent of the population in India has had major depressive episodes (MDE). If not treated, it could be the most significant factor causing disability, adding to the growing numbers, in the developing countries. 

Unlike several other physical ailments, no single age group is more susceptible to depression. Dr Mini Rao, a city-based psychologist, says, “Be it a teenager or a working professional in their 20s, or the aged, anyone is likely to develop depression, for a number of reasons. Maybe the reasons differ among age groups. For a student it could be about peer pressure or body image and for someone who has just retired from work, the sheer boredom of sitting at home could trigger depression.” She, however, adds that those with a family history of depression are more likely to have it. 

Dr Lakshmi Vijayakumar, psychiatrist, WHO Consultant and founder of Sneha, a suicide prevention helpline, says that women are more like to suffer from depression. “There are considerable fluctuations in their hormones throughout their life. Some woman may suffer from depression after childbirth (postpartum depression), before their menstrual cycle called Premenstrual dysphoric disorder and perimenopausal depression,” she says. She adds that apart from these, expectations from women about putting their family before themselves and being sacrificial about careers also contribute to the emotional reasons. 

There is a link between suicide and depression, Dr Lakshmi says, adding that a fair share of the 35 per cent of suicides in the country can be attributed to depression. 

Sometimes, simple indications, like change in appetite and sleep patterns of their teenaged children can be warning signs for parents, says Dr. Sumathi Chandrasekaran, counselling psychologist, and founder of Neha Foundation. “Children with depression show signs of withdrawing from any kind of interaction, irritation and change in interests,” she explains. 

It is important for parents to understand these and show concern and try to connect with them. “The guilt factor is most negative and it can hamper the child’s mental health in the form of depression, at times. Parents should reach out to them rather than confronting them for the change in behaviour,” she adds.

While celebrities like Padukone talking about the issue is a welcome move, more concerted efforts need to be taken to address it on a war footing.

Dr Rao adds that the reason that is the biggest concern for specialists is that not many are willing to come out in the open about depression. “They feel that consulting a psychologist means they are mentally ill. This stigma is stopping many from seeking help,” she says.

Dr R Sathianathan, Professor of Psychiatry, Sri Ramachandra University, says with the growing burden of depression, it becomes imperative for general practitioners to spot it, as the mental condition can manifest as headaches and pain. “The prevalence rate could be anywhere between 16 to 28 per cent. In many people, there are physical complaints like back pain but tests reveal they are absolutely fine. We don’t have the concept of family doctors. Sometimes, all people need is someone to open up to and GPs can be helpful,” he says.