What is depression and when should I seek help?
Depression is a serious mood disorder. Unfortunately, there is a tendency to think that depression is simply feeling sad, anxious, feeling down etc. People are prone to disregard their mental wellbeing due to overuse of the word ‘Depression’ by those who do not have it which prompts them to say ‘everyone has this’, ‘just suck it up, and deal with it’. While individually, these feelings are not concerning, it is however important to understand when to take it seriously and seek help.
Depressive/sad feelings are natural depending on the situation (e.g., loss of a loved one, failure in exam, financial crisis etc.). It only becomes concerning when these feelings begin to persist, and the sadness turns into hopelessness, helplessness or feeling worthless. It can last for days, weeks, months, or even years. When these feelings are no longer bound by a valid/rational reason, or when it starts to interfere with your life and daily activities it is time to seek help.
According to WHO, approximately 280 million people in the world have depression!!
Types of Depression
There are several types of depression, each with its own characteristics and impact on daily life:
- Major Depressive Disorder: Also known as Clinical Depression, is an extremely debilitating form of depression that affects a person’s interest, and level of activity in their daily life for at least two weeks.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder: Also known as Dysthymia, it is a less severe form of depression that lasts a long time (2 years at least).
- Seasonal Affective Disorder: Depressive episodes that come and go with the seasons. It is not consistent throughout the year.
- Post Partum Depression: A form of depression that affects women right after they’ve given birth. It can affect their functioning as well as the bond between mother and child. When left untreated, it can affect the parent-child relationship and the mental health of the mother.
- Bipolar Disorder: Periods of severe depressive symptoms but also periods of extreme elation/manic episodes. The mood swings from one extreme to the other.
- Depression with symptoms of psychosis: A severe form of depression where a person may experience psychosis symptoms including delusions or hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that are not there).
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: Severe mood problems in women just before her period, which are much more intense than typical Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) symptoms.
How Bright Ray can help you tackle Depression
Depression can weigh you down and prevent you from reaching your true potential. Bright Ray provides a non-judgemental safe space to air out your feelings and address your concerns.
We initiate the therapeutic process with a proper assessment for depression.
We will help you learn new strategies that will allow you to increase functionality in your life and push away the burden on your shoulders.
Our Clinical Psychologist and Psychiatrist will take care of your medication in conjunction with Psychotherapy when required.
*Bright Ray is not an emergency service provider. If you are considering or contemplating suicide or feel that you are a danger to yourself or to others, please notify appropriate police or emergency medical personnel immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
💠 Genetics
💠 History of Mental Health Disorders
💠 Biological (head injury, chronic illness, certain medications, hormonal changes)
💠 Environmental Stress (Childhood Abuse, Bullying, Trauma, Violence, Work stress etc.)
💠 Substance Abuse/ Withdrawal