Depression is killing us

BY: DAPHNE-RAE LEE

One of the mental disorders that is increasing at an astonishing rapid rate, depression is inevitable for the people of this day and age. It can last for a couple of days, a few weeks, months, and even years.

From a loss of someone dear and near, to the failing of an examination, all this occurrences that happen in life may cause depression.




There are two main kinds of depression, unipolar and bipolar.

Unipolar depression consists of clinical depression that can be so serious that one hallucinates terrible things, dysthymia which can last longer than clinical depression, and seasonal affective disorder by which the name suggests itself, when the person's mood is affected by the season changes.

Bipolar depression includes Bipolar I Disorder, Bipolar II Disorder and Cyclothymia, by which all can be grouped under manic depression. Bipolar depression, just like major/clinical depression, can cause delusions and unpleasant hallucinations.

People who suffers from such disorders as mentioned above, tend to have a low mood for most of the day. Feelings of guilt and worthlessness, anxiety and anger often occur for no reason at all. They may experience a loss of enthusiasm for anything, including studying, working, going out, partying or even sex.

Sleeping disorders usually come together with depression, be it insomnia or hypersomnia, depression usually has an effect on a person's sleeping habits. This is the main reason why depressed people usually have a lack of energy and troubles concentrating.

Fatigue, the general mood for people who are suffering from depression, is inevitable. In between the moments of tiredness, one will have unexplained and abrupt breakdowns and cry frequently.

These symptoms are common, and once a depressed person starts to have thoughts of suicide or death, that is the last cue for him or her to seek help before it's too late.

Depression occurs from a combination of things, and it is not unusual for some to have absolutely no idea why they are depressed. They can be from a wealthy family, those happy families you see on television where everyone sits down together and bond over dinner. Yet, one of those family members might just be suffering silently from depression, without knowing why.


Genetics play a role in depression, meaning that this mental disorder can run in families for many generations. Trauma and stress, also has a major part to play in this illness. Financial, family and relationship problems can all result in depression. Even starting a new career, graduating from school, getting married, moving out, having children, these changes and steps we take in life can cause depression too. Some of us, as humans, are just so terrified to leave our comfort zone that little things scare us to our bones.

Other psychological disorders can cause depression too. They include anxiety and panic disorders, eating disorders (anorexia and bulimia), schizophrenia and especially substance abuse. These factors usually appear alongside with depression and it can be hard to tell which disorder one had first that caused the other.

If you suspect that you are depressed, or if anybody you know who might be suffering from depression, do seek help by calling 6389 2000 or emailing enquiry@imh.com.sg. Unable to talk to a stranger regarding your problems? Talk and open up to your friends and family, talk to your pet, write in your diary, anything. Just don't bottle everything up inside you because someday, you just might blow up.