Compromised Mental Health: Understanding Depression and Anxiety

Like physical health, mental health is also a vital constituent of general well-being, yet in India, mental illnesses are frequently veiled with shame and silence. Conditions such as nervousness, depression and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are actual diseases that can considerably affect the life of an individual. Our goal in this blog is to bring these scenarios out into the open so that we may foster a better climate of comprehension and support for them.

Nervousness: a Constant Associate of Anxiousness

Anxiety refers to a feeling of unease or worry, which is a usual reaction to stress. But when it becomes excessive, persistent and starts interfering with daily living, then it’s considered as an anxiety disorder.

Indications of Anxiety

If you look carefully, you will know the signs of an anxiety attack. We have listed some of the symptoms for you to understand anxiety.

• Problems with or quick breathing
• Feeling being choked or swallowed by something
• Chest pain or heaviness in the chest
• Fast or racing heart
• Sweating a lot
• Shaking or trembling
• Confusion or feeling lightheaded 
• Feeling as though things around you aren’t real (derealisation)
• Feeling like you’re outside yourself, watching things happen to you (depersonalisation)
• Feeling very still or feeling like you have no energy at all (psychomotor agitation)
• Fear of dying

Let's delve into common types of Anxiety Disorders.

Generalised Anxiety Disorder(GAD): GAD is simply related to excessive worry and anxiety about day-to-day things. People who have GAD are unable to control these worries.

Social Anxiety Disorder(SAD): We all suffer from the anxiety of being judged by others. However, individuals who have SAD have no control over these feelings.

Panic Disorder: Panic attacks, or panic disorder, are repeated episodes of intense fear or discomfort. It triggers suddenly and reaches its peak within minutes.

Depression: The Constant Darkness

When we talk about mental health, depression is one word that's frequently mentioned. Depression is the persistent feeling of sadness. You might participate in your interest or pleasure activities, which you once used to enjoy, but now you don't get happiness from it. The changes in appetite, sleep and energy levels are tell-tale signs of depression.

Indication of Depression

Here are some of the indications an individual feels if they are depressed.

• Being sad for most of the day nearly every day.
• Losing interest in or having no pleasure in activities once enjoyed.
• Either losing weight when not dieting or gaining weight, or decreased appetite or increased appetite.
• Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much.
• Feeling tired or having little energy.
• Restlessness or slowed down feeling.
• Feeling worthless or guilty.
• Difficulty concentrating on things, such as reading the newspaper or watching television. Forgetting about important dates, such as a friend’s birthday, is also a sign of depression.
• Periodic thoughts of death or mainly suicide.

Always remember that various factors trigger depression, and these include stressful life events and even genetics. If you are experiencing more than two weeks of these symptoms, we suggest you seek help.

How is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Related to Depression and Anxiety?

Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety are related to mental health conditions. Though past traumatic experiences trigger PTSD in individuals, one can see signs of an anxiety attack or depression from various life stressors. Yet, studies have found up to 90% of people who have PTSD also experience anxiety and depression. Sometimes, these three disorders trigger each other and create a cycle of never-ending suffering.

Always remember getting help is the key to every problem. Many resources in India are ready to help if you are experiencing these mental health conditions. You can talk to a psychiatrist, a therapist or a counsellor for the right solution. Take care of your mental health as you take care of your physical health.

Takeaways: Let's Break the Stigma

Mental health issues are not weaknesses that we need to be embarrassed of. As with any physical illness, these are real diseases that get better with treatment and help. Come, let's pledge to work together to create a supportive environment that is open to anyone, where people will feel comfortable discussing problems of mental health and don't shy away from seeking help. Talk openly about the signs of anxiety attacks, depression, post traumatic stress disorder and other mental illnesses. Let's break the stigma and encourage people to help themselves and others.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How to know if I have a mental illness?
   
   Answer:- Anxiety or depression, it's a biological reaction to any circumstances that don't feel right. But if your anxiety or depression becomes overwhelming, or you are feeling down for more than 2 weeks then seek an expert opinion. 
   
   
2. If I visit a psychiatrist, will people consider me mad?
   
   Answer:- No, always seeking help from a psychiatrist is a sign of strength. Just like any physical illness, we seek advice from doctors, psychiatrists and counsellors who are there to treat your mental illness.
   
   
3. Can children get anxious and depressed?
   
   Answer:- Yes, children are also prone to anxiety and depression. You might want to notice the tell-tale signs in your child and consult with your child's physician first.
   
   
4. What if I have side effects from my medications?
   
   Answer:- First and foremost, consult your therapist, even if you are not sure which medicine is causing the side effects. But remember not to discontinue without consulting the doctor. Abrupt disruption may cause other health issues.