The world of Tzu Chi March 2023 (Vol.145)

2023 • 03 16 In Malaysia, one in four adults (29.2%) and one in eight adolescents under the age of 17 (12.1%) are suffering from a mental health condition, and depression is among the most prevalent. Understanding Depression G lobally, mental health disorders have become a great public health concern. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), an estimated 280 million people in the world are living with depression. In the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic, the global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by a whopping 25%. Depression is different from typical mood swings and temporary emotional responses to challenges in daily life. It is not about one thinking too much, being introverted, having low stress tolerance, being emotional, or having mental problems. In fact, there are ways to diagnose depression, and if it persists and escalates to moderate or severe levels, it can evolve into a significant health issue, disrupting a person’s daily routines, and in extreme cases, leading to suicidal thoughts and behaviour. Although there are effective treatments available for depression, only about half of patients worldwide receive the treatment they need. This low rate of treatment is due to three main reasons: a lack of awareness, where patients may not realise that they have depression and believe that their symptoms will go away with rest or that their mood will improve with some excitement; stigma, where people view mental illness as a personal weakness; and limited access to treatment resources, particularly for those who live in remote areas. Causes and signs of depression Depression is primarily caused by a deficiency in neurotransmitters levels, specifically low levels of serotonin. Its causes include genetic predisposition, imbalances in brain secretion, damage or degradation of brain function, imbalanced hormone levels, stress, and the absence of appropriate treatment. It is crucial for everyone to understand the signs and symptoms of depression, as early detection and treatment can increase the chances of recovery. The following symptoms, if they persist for a minimum of two consecutive weeks, may be indicative of depression: • Persistent feelings of sadness • Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities • Impairment in work or school performance • Difficulty communicating with others • Chronic fatigue • Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns • Decreased motivation for work • Loss of appetite • Poor concentration • Negative thoughts • Hopelessness about life • Hallucinations • Constant thoughts of suicide