If you haven’t already done so, please read my earlier post titled “I Understand – Part 1”.
Some of you asked me why I’m talking about such negative issues. Am doing so because I believe that by discussing such problems openly, we can bring about some positive change (however miniscule) in society, compared to just brushing them under the carpet and pretending everything is hunky dory and perfect. Mental health awareness is very low in India and we need to talk about it.
However, I’m not a doctor, just been a patient who suffered from depression once and am sharing my experiences. Have done a few psychology courses, so I do know what I’m talking about. When I was suffering and being blamed for it and misunderstood, reading about other people who overcame depression gave me a lot of hope, so I’m doing my bit.
It’s probably not a very wise thing to publicly proclaim that I have been depressed in the past, but I’m not particularly renowned for being “wise” 🙂 🙂 The biggest problem with mental health is the stigma attached to it. But, its just like any other physical illness and can be successfully treated (look at me now).
However, many people continue to suffer and are denied treatment in many cases because the existence of a problem is not acknowledged. It’s considered to be “all in the mind” and as something that can be overcome by “willpower” alone. This is totally false because many times there are physiological reasons behind it.
Some mild cases of depression can be treated by counselling alone, without the need for medication, but many people need medication for at least sometime. There’s stigma attached to taking medication as well, and nothing can be more cruel than this.
For example, if a person is diagnosed with diabetes and records high blood sugar levels regularly, the doctor will prescribe a diabetes medication for them to control their sugars. Imagine how ridiculous it would be if the doctor instead asked the patient to use his “willpower” to regulate his blood sugar!! 🙁
That’s all I have to say today. Hope you “understood” 🙂 🙂
PS: Attaching a very good link where you can read more on “Depression”.
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007