Depression: The slow killer

APROPOS of Kuldip Dhiman’s write-up "The slow killer" (October 23), everyone goes through phases of depression at one stage or another for varied reasons.

Signs of depression are a state of extreme dejection or excessive melancholy, mooed of helplessness, feeling of inadequacy, often accompanied by physical symptoms. These people are unable to enjoy life.

When there is gap between aspirations and achievements depression is the result. In present times, because of tough competition and limited job opportunities, cases of depression are rising. Basic failures, be these in love, examination or interview, give rise to depression.

Some people do not suffer from depression at all during their entire life but after retirement or after the death of their spouse, face depression.

Recent WHO studies reveal a higher rate of depression among married women. Housewives with no occupation, lacking a sense of identity and given to worrying if husband or children are a few minutes late, suffer from depression. Due to the role conflicts that women face, and a loss of self-esteem, they plunge into depression.

In most cases, depression does not last long. Many who feel suicidal or think that life has not meaning, have to remember that it is a passing phase.

Psychiatrists present various ways of combating depression. Dr Achal Bhagat, consultant psychiatrist with Apollo Hospital, advises: "One can get rid of it oneself by asking some questions like ‘Is something bothering me? Why am I not able to sleep well or enjoy simple things of life?Why do I feel that I am not useful or needed?" Once in a while the depressed should pat themselves. "That will really cheer them, says Dr Bhagat".

K.M. VASHISHT
Mansa

II

In the present times, a common man is surrounded by ever-increasing tensions at home and in the workplace. As there is nobody to share his tensions, he broods alone. It is quite revealing to note that 15 per cent of men and 25 per cent of women suffer from depression. Depression is such a deceptive ailment that at times even doctors fail to spot it. Moreover, even the patient may shy away from revealing his state of mind. Social organisations and religious preachers should provide the necessary healing touch to the victims of this disease. We must organise family or social support groups who should come to the aid of those suffering from depression.

ONKAR CHOPRA
Ludhiana

III

In the present times we are faced with feelings of alienation, hopelessness and powerlessness. Depression in children and adolescents have the same symptoms as in adults. The symptoms may include restlessness, irritability, aggression, uncooperative behaviour, alcohol and drug abuse.

Psychologists have stressed that depression is caused (a) when anger is turned against self (b) when one excessively depends on others for self-esteem and (c) when one faces obstacles in achieving one’s goals.

People born after 1960 are 10 times more prone to become depressed than their grandparents. Depression is the number one cause of suicide.

VIJAY SHEEL JAIN
Ludhiana

IV

Depression has its roots in tension, worry, anxiety, stress, personality disorders, emotional strain, nervous exhaustion, failure, unhealthy competition and last of all in unhappy and troubled childhood.

An unhappy person always looks at the gloomy side of things. He is depressed and discouraged by everything he sees. His unhappy attitude interferes with his health.

It slows down his circulation, makes him jumpy and nervous, spoils his sleep, makes him sceptical and suspicious of others, and takes the joy out of living.

The best way to relieve depression, is to provide a happy atmosphere at home. We should be contented and make the most of what we have. We must look on the bright side of things and encourage children to do the same.

Even the best treatment may fail to overcome depression if our own attitude is faulty and full of gloom. In other words a happy optimistic person is bound to enjoy better health.

O.P. SHARMA
Faridabad

A team of models

Apropos Khushwant Singh "Millennium Cricketer" (October 23), indeed, commercialisation of cricket has given it a bad name. Names of cricketers are commercially exploited in order to boost the image or brand personality of a product. The cricket control board should realise that we need a model team and not a team of models.

SURINDER KUMAR MARWAHA
New Delhi

Mystery of love

This refers to the article "Mystery of love" by Amit Singh (October 23). Every religion emphasises love e.g. love for God, love for humanity, love for good values of life, so that a society beneficial to all may take birth.

But when religion is used to create discord among the masses it loses its significance.

If the youth power is channelised in a constructive manner, all contentious issues can be solved. Youth can give a fresh approach to problem solving and removing all hatred and animosity.

ANUPAMA KAUSHIK
Chandigarh