While many people know depression to be triggered by issues such as, conflict, loss, serious illness, drugs, and uncomfortable occurrences.
Some do not know that depression can also be genetic.
Having a family member with a history of depression can lead to genetic inheritance of the condition. This basically means that a person may not be exposed to the above emotional triggers but still suffer from depression.
Following are five of the many signs that you or a friend might be suffering from depression:
- Feeling Hopeless and Helpless – in some cases people do not associate feeling hopeless and helpless with depression, and in many cases it might not be. A constant feeling of this nature might however be a sign to seek help.
- Thoughts of Death or Suicide- thoughts of dying or suicide are the most known symptoms of depression, and these should not be taken lightly as they in many cases lead to people taking their lives.
- Withdrawing from Friends – this is usually a sign of depression that is not noticeable, this is because people have a lot going on in their lives that they associate withdrawal with being busy.
- Changes in Eating habits or Weight – loss of appetite which may later turn into weight loss is something common when one suffers from depression.
- Fatigue, loss of energy and not enjoying the things that one use to enjoy – this is usually one of the first signs when one suffers from the condition.
After the world was hit by the covid-19 pandemic, people suffered many changes and losses with some finding themselves hit by depression.
The South African Depression and Anxiety group offers toll free lines for those suffering from depression and symptoms related to it. It is also advisable to seek help immediately or speak to a friend when not feeling well.
For mental issue related help one can call Cipla Mental Health Helpline @ 0800 456 789, SMS 31393.
If one experiences thoughts of suicide, the Suicide Crisis Helpline, is 0800 567 567.
NPOwer SA Helpline, @ 0800 515 515, SMS 43010 is for all gender abuse related matters.
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