Dearest readers, at times, our own "light" goes out and is rekindled by a "spark" from another person. It's Day 23, DETAILS is delighted to have an amazing guest add a beam of light to lighten up our day.
Lara is a 24-year-old woman who works as an HR manager in a fin-tech company. She is the second child in a family of six. She has always been the type of person who enjoys making new friends and is always up for a good time. Lara is a happy-go-lucky person, according to her friends. Recently, Lara tried to end her life, but one of her friends intervened just in time to save her and take her to the hospital. After being treated by the doctor, it was discovered that she was also suffering from depression.
The question now is, "How?" Lara appears to be a happy and fun person based on the story.
WHAT IS DEPRESSION?
I refer to depression as abnormal sadness, with the word “abnormal” being the keyword. This common mood disorder is characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities.
On the other hand, "smiling depression" refers to someone who is depressed on the inside but appears completely happy or content on the outside.
Their public persona is usually "put together," though some may describe it as "normal" or "fun." Having notably low energy and difficulty getting out of bed in the morning is a common depressive symptom. In smiling depression, energy levels may not be affected (except when a person is alone).
Depression does not have a single face or appearance. As a result, when well-known people commit suicide as a result of depression, many people are taken aback because of the masks (or smiles) they wear.
IS THERE ANY SOLUTION?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is a common illness with an estimated 3.8% of the population affected. So what can you do?
● Talk to a mental health professional, they are available in hospitals around you. There is also Asido Foundation, whose helpline offers psychological first aid, they can be reach via 09028080416.
● Try doing something you enjoy, whether it is listening to music, meeting new people, having fun while outside.
● Sometimes stress is also a major contributor, so reduce your stress and avoid stressors as much as you can.
● Avoid drugs and alcohol.
● Practice healthy eating and sleeping habits. Not getting enough rest or eating proper
meals can also contribute to mood disorder.
● Experiment with new hobbies, meditation and writing journals.
● Practice gratitude and reward every achievement, no matter how little.
