WHAT IS DEPRESSION? 

Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious mental disorder that negatively affects how you feel, think, act, and perceive the world.

MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT DEPRESSION 

It is a common misconception that depression is a western ailment that is alien to African society. However, a lot of people from time immemorial have been depressed whether they are white or black. They haven’t just given it a name then as they have  it today. Many also believe that depression is mostly associated with the rich and powerful people in society. However, the truth is that depression does not have preferences for the rich. It affects both the rich, the poor and the not so poor. While the rich could be depressed with not getting enough money as they wanted, the poor can be depressed with their lack of financial capabilities.

CAUSES OF DEPRESSION 

1. Several factors could be responsible for depression. One of them could be the loss of a loved one. The loss of a loved one can impact negatively on a person. It can trigger a depressive state and such a fellow begins to see life as meaningless, especially a man who has been bereaved of his wife or his only child. When such a thing happens, the fellow may be contemplating suicidal thoughts if adequate measures are not put in place to checkmate it.
2. When a man can no longer provide for the basic needs of his family, let alone other needs, especially when he has lost his means of livelihood; a job or a once lucrative business. The thought of being financially inadequate can become  a heavy weight that can impact negatively on the psyche of a man. Depression can further be fueled when the wife is making unhealthy comparisons between her husband and other prosperous men, say friends or other family members in their immediate environment.
3. Hostile and economic hardship can also be a harbinger of depression. It is not a hidden fact that inflation is a hydra-headed phenomenon that is affecting many countries in the world today. So many businesses are folding up or experiencing financial strangulation that is affecting how businesses are run. This can result in persistent lack and inability to achieve set goals whether individually or collectively, which can also lead to depression. 
4. Debt is another offspring of depression. A lady shared some time ago about her aunt who frequently visited the hospital. She was given anti depression drugs. When her aunt finally disclosed the root of the problem to this lady. She said her aunt was  indebted to some people who have been asking for their money. This took her peace away and she was living in fear. This led to her coming down with depression. 
5. Lack of fulfillment can also impact negatively on an individual which can eventually lead to depression. Countless stories abound of very successful individuals in businesses, careers and other endeavours who committed suicide. A good many of them left suicide notes detailing their reason for embracing suicide as the only option to end their misery of lack of  fulfilment. 

HOW TO OVERCOME DEPRESSION

1. The first cure to depression is opening up. Admit to yourself that you have a problem. It is not something to be embarrassed or shy about. Talk to a  trusted person who can understand your condition.
2. There will be temptation to dwell on the bitter circumstances that one is presently battling rather than look to the bright side of things. It is important to be hopeful and be optimistic that life’s problems don’t always last forever. It is like a smoke that could fester your eyes for a moment until the tears drops but afterwards, relief comes.
3. Another way you can overcome depression is to divert your energy into other things of interest that can take your mind off your present predicament. If you can successfully do this, you will discover that there is more to life than thinking of suicide or feeling sorry for yourself.
4. When you are feeling depressed, it is not the time to isolate yourself from friends and families. Staying within the reach of people who love you and who you care about can help contribute to your quick recovery. Their show of genuine love and concern can help you heal faster.
5. Above all, seek medical attention. Talk to a health practitioner who can give you therapeutic advice on what to do. The more a matter is bottled within, the more it can degenerate the mind and lead to depression and or death. Your life is more important than your problems, don’t give in to depression.

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