Sandeep Maheshwari shares his thoughts on social media.

He wrote, “Just wanted to share something with you… A lot of people think that I am some kind of a superhuman who can never get demotivated or depressed. It’s not true. Since the end of 2020, during COVID, I have been fighting with depression. I am taking medication as per clinical diagnosis. You might be thinking that why I am sharing all of this with you. Because I genuinely feel that you deserve to know the truth (no matter how sad/bad it is)”.

Understanding Depression: An In-Depth Look

Depression, also called major depressive disorder (MDD), is a common and serious medical illness that can affect how you feel, think, and act. It can lead to various emotional and physical problems, making it challenging for a person to function well at work and at home. Depression symptoms can range from mild to severe and can disrupt everyday life.

Symptoms of Depression:

The main signs of depression are:

1. Continuous sadness, anxiety, or emptiness
2. Losing interest or joy in once-enjoyable activities
3. Changes in appetite – weight loss or gain not related to dieting
4. Trouble sleeping or sleeping excessively
5. Loss of energy or increased fatigue
6. Difficulty thinking, concentrating, and making decisions
7. Restlessness or feeling slowed down
8. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
9. Thoughts of death or suicide

Causes of Depression:

While the exact cause of depression remains unknown, it is believed to result from a mix of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Some contributing factors include:

1. Genetics: Depression tends to run in families, indicating a genetic link.
2. Brain chemistry: People with depression may have abnormal levels of certain brain chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine.
3. Stress: Stressful life events, such as losing a loved one or facing financial problems, can trigger depression.
4. Medical conditions: Chronic pain, cancer, or thyroid issues can increase the risk of depression.
5. Substance abuse: Alcohol and drug misuse can worsen or even cause depression.

Diagnosis of Depression:

A mental health professional diagnoses depression through a thorough evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and mental status. While there isn’t a single test for depression, your doctor may order tests to rule out other medical conditions that could be causing your symptoms.

Treatment for Depression:

The most effective treatments for depression are psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both.

1. Psychotherapy: Also known as talk therapy, it helps identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors contributing to depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a particularly effective form of psychotherapy.
2. Medication: Antidepressant medications can regulate levels of brain chemicals thought to play a role in depression. Medication is often used alongside psychotherapy.

Self-Care for Depression:

Besides professional treatment, there are things you can do to manage depression on your own:

1. Engage in regular physical activity: Exercise reduces depression symptoms effectively.
2. Get enough sleep: Adequate sleep can improve mood and energy levels.
3. Eat a healthy diet: A nutritious diet enhances overall mood and well-being.
4. Avoid alcohol and drugs: Substance use can worsen depression and complicate treatment.
5. Connect with others: Social interaction reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness.
6. Seek professional help if needed: There’s no shame in seeking help, and it can make a significant difference in your life.

Remember, depression is treatable. With the right treatment and support, you can overcome depression and lead a fulfilling life.