In recent times, a heartbreaking news of the “Yanqing Middle School student falling off building incident” once again highlights the terrifying nature of depression. Just like well-known figures: Leslie Cheung, Ren Qiaoliang, Danny Chan, Sulli, Coco Lee… their vibrant and brilliant lives fade away in an instant, reminding us that behind every tragic event, we should be more aware that depression is not just about feeling low but a serious mental and social illness.
Depression, also known as depressive disorder, is a major type of mood disorder characterized by persistent and profound feelings of sadness. Individuals with depression commonly exhibit the following symptoms:
Core symptoms:
Mood disturbance: continuous feelings of sadness and despair, unable to experience joy.
Lack of interest: losing interest in previously enjoyable activities.
Common symptoms:
Psychomotor retardation: slowed reactions, sluggish movements.
Lack of concentration: impaired memory, difficulty focusing.
Sleep disturbances: insomnia or early awakening, decreased quality of sleep.
Appetite changes: decreased or increased food intake, leading to weight fluctuations.
Low self-esteem: self-doubt, self-blame.
Moderate symptoms:
Anxiety, tension, worry: often accompanied by anxiety.
Excessive rumination: repeatedly dwell on negative issues, struggling to break free.
Pessimism towards the future: losing confidence and hope for the future.
Less common symptoms:
Auditory hallucinations, delusions of persecution, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors, etc.: these symptoms may indicate a severe mental condition
Other symptoms:
Physical discomfort: such as headaches, back pain, muscle aches, which may improve as emotions stabilize.
Depression can occur at any age, the core issue being depression, yet clinical manifestations vary greatly, leading to possible misdiagnosis and incorrect treatment. Individuals have unique ways of expressing emotions due to their different life experiences, educational backgrounds, family environments, and personality traits. Hence, during depression, various manifestations can be observed.
How can depression be prevented?
Avoid genetic factors: choose a partner carefully, preferably someone without a family history of emotional disorders or mental illnesses.
Focus on children’s growth: show care and prevent childhood emotional trauma.
Enhance psychological resilience: maintain good sleep quality, engage in appropriate leisure activities, have a willingness to communicate effectively.
Physical exercise: exercise helps improve physical health, generates positive mental feelings, and alleviates a series of depressive symptoms.
Diet: recent research indicates that regularly consuming tomatoes has a notable preventive effect on depression.
How should depression be treated?
Psychological therapy: such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps alleviate symptoms through psychological counseling.
Medication: common medications include paroxetine, sertraline, fluoxetine, and should be taken as per medical advice.
Physical treatments: such as modified electroconvulsive therapy, vagus nerve stimulation, transcranial magnetic stimulation, can improve brain function.
Environmental therapy: living in a sunny, beautiful, and fresh air environment effectively enhances
In conclusion, seek medical attention promptly if the condition worsens. Through timely treatment and effective preventive measures, it is hoped that patients can overcome the distress of depression and regain joy in life.
