'Let's Talk' - A Key to Understanding Depression

‘I’m tired of this life. Sometimes, I feel like ending it all.’ I had nothing to say to my friend’s sudden outburst. It left me totally shocked and disturbed. It isn’t like you hear such upsetting things every time. Exam stress, peer pressure or if we look at it from a wider angle, family problems or a financial crisis are what brings down the morale of a student. In such situations, we rely on our family, close friends and relatives for support. This is how the many suicidal tendencies among youth are averted.



The mere mention of suicide evokes shocked responses from listeners. I faced a similar problem when my friend made this revelation. I could only console her saying that this wasn’t the end of everything and she shouldn’t nurture such thoughts in her mind. It was the least I could do to comfort her.

 As the world celebrates October 10^th  as World Mental Health Day, we realize
that the challenges posed by mental illnesses are increasing day by day. Depression is one such illness that causes deaths by suicide globally. In India, over 1, 33,000 deaths are caused by suicide every year. In the 15-29 age groups it has become the second leading cause of death. Major reasons that cause depression include family problems, ill health, failure in exams etc. If suicide is the sudden death causing pain to loved ones, depression is a silent killer and the victim is the sole person

who has to suffer its pain and frustration. Moreover, the stigma associated with it prevents the person from expressing his/her thoughts freely. This has urged the state to focus on mental health issues. As teenagers are the target group, we can also be a part of this initiative.

    Here are some ways in which we can be a source of support to our near and dear ones who may be suffering from depression.

        

•       Empathy – the best cure

    When you see your friend in distress, the ability to feel for rather than feel             sorry for the person can cure depression to a large extent. The awareness that there are people who will listen to their problems gives them the strength to put on a brave face against difficulties. Be that person who feels empathy. You       may never have been a victim of depression yourself but talk to your friend and     listen to what he/she has to say. It will make a world of a difference.

•       Never be the Judge of their thoughts 

 

 When your close friend tells you that he/she is suffering from depression, never   ever judge the person. It can have a reverse effect from what you intended.   Instead, be a good listener. Tell them that there is always a plan B.  Never try to     break their trust by judging their actions. 

    

•        And finally…Just Keep Swimming

 When someone else takes credit for your work, when your opinions aren’t heard, when low grades have taken a liking towards you, remind them that ‘this too shall pass.’ When life gets you down, do you know what you've gotta do? Just keep swimming...

As Leo Buscaglia wrote, “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”