My beloved daughter,
Mental health issues are not topics we are culturally attuned to discussing in our country Nigeria. Like a lot of other subjects like sexual assault, domestic violence and drug abuse, we tend to not want to broach the subject, let alone deal with it head on.
There are no official statistics available, but given the problems people face in our society a good number of our population suffers from depression. Depression is a grave illness that affects day-to-day life and destroys families. It is a disorder that affects the mind and its functions causing loss of appetite, sleeplessness, mood swings, and a deep sense of despair.
The symptoms of depression are varied and the severity changes with time. And, according to experts, depression can be an inherited disorder, or caused by life threatening illnesses, or stress. Other causes are certain medications, hard drugs or alcohol. Women are seen to experience depression more than men and this is attributed to hormonal swings, menstrual cycle changes, pregnancy, miscarriage, pre-menopause, and post-menopause.
Common symptoms are:
- An unshakeable sadness, anxiety, or emptiness.
- Overwhelming hopelessness accompanied by pessimistic feelings.
- Extreme guilt, feelings of helplessness, and no sense of self-worth.
- Loss of energy, a slowing down of metabolism, and activity levels. Being plagued by constant fatigue.
- A sense of helplessness along with an increasing inability to focus and indecisiveness.
- Loss of sound sleep and development of extreme insomnia.
- Inexplicable weight loss or weight gain, triggered by loss of appetite or eating binges.
- Brooding and suicidal inclinations.
- Irritability, short temper, as well as restlessness.
- Physical afflictions like headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain for no particular reason.
If you experience any of the above along with a marked change in behavior do consult your doctor. Your doctor should give you a thorough examination to rule out physical causes of depression as well as any underlying medical problems. Should the doctor deem it appropriate, will recommend that you consult a psychiatrist or psychologist. Clinical treatment for depression can include: anti-depressant medicines, psychotherapy, as well as lifestyle changes. In extreme cases electroconvulsive therapy or light therapy may be prescribed.
It may help to take matters in hand and try and erase negativity from your thought processes. Avoid using terms like exhaustion, worthlessness, and hopelessness. Change your life by setting yourself a few goals. Try and relax, take time to meditate, also play and listen to the type of music you enjoy. Start new activities that absorb your time as well as interests. Go out and meet people and participate in group activities. Avoid the company of negative people. Make up your mind to enjoy a movie, ballgame, family outing, picnic, or trek. Be positive, self-confident, and have faith in yourself. Faith is itself a great healer. Decide to change your world for the better. However, do follow the doctor’s advice.
It is my prayer that depression is never your lot to suffer in life, however should you or anyone close or dear to you show symptoms of depression, do not be afraid to open up and ask for help. If depression escalates or one gets suicidal, it is important to seek urgent help from your family physician, health care provider, hospital or clinic. It is important to seek out help so that someone will extend a helping hand and help you through the crisis.
May you never be depressed my love. May sunshine and light accompany you as you journey through life.
Love you always.
Dad.