When it comes to depression, many people may think of it as a mental illness that makes individuals very unhappy and might even lead to suicidal thoughts. However, depression is not as mysterious as it is portrayed. Many psychological conditions are not as sinister. If you suffer from depression, your brain has already undergone changes. So, what goes on in your mind when you have depression?
What Depression Is Thinking
There are over a billion people suffering from depression globally. Previously, depression was ranked as the leading cause of disability worldwide. The main symptoms include feeling low, long periods of suppression, and difficulty finding peace of mind. Additionally, depression has already impacted work and family life for many individuals, requiring medication for management. During a depressive episode, patients may not be aware of their actions and lose the ability to judge basic situations. They view the world with hostility and negativity, often contemplating how to feel better. They struggle to control their emotions and if the brain remains in such a state for a prolonged period, it can lead to an imbalance that affects brain health
There are many mothers in life who experience postpartum depression after giving birth, often heard in the news that some women, due to not receiving care and understanding from their partners and family, end up taking extreme actions like suicide, some even involve their children. This is a heart-wrenching situation ultimately caused by the postpartum low mood and mild depression. Therefore, family members must take great care of the mothers’ emotions after childbirth; this is also very alarming.
A Mouse Experiment Reveals Clues
A psychiatric specialist conducted an experiment using mice, implanting an electrode in the mouse’s head that could directly shine blue light onto the mouse’s nerve cells. Initially, a male and female mouse were kept together to lead a happy life. At some point, the electrode emitting blue light was inserted into the male mouse’s brain, showcasing their happy moments. Subsequently, the male mouse was taken to a dark cage and subjected to torment. Soon, this mouse felt hopeless. After rescuing the mouse and providing some food, it didn’t immediately show excitement. However, when the electric current was switched on, a miracle happened, and the male mouse became excited as usual. In this way, the mouse’s depression was cured.
Ultimately, it was the happy moments that the mouse had once possessed that were crucial. The same applies to humans. The ones who can truly cure their depression are the individuals themselves. Therefore, if you often feel depressed and down, you must take it seriously. To become happier, our body needs to release a large amount of dopamine. You can eat foods you like more often to uplift your mood promptly, try to communicate more with the outside world, never isolate yourself, preferably talk to friends about your worries, or engage in activities that interest you to release your negative emotions.
It’s also beneficial to engage in regular physical activity to enrich yourself, especially outdoor activities where you can interact with family and friends. Playing tennis or badminton not only allows you to breathe fresh air but also helps alleviate your mood.
