Depression is an emotion, a state of mind and view of the world associated with loss of joy and appreciation for living. Depression is one of the prices we pay for having a developed sense of consciousness.
No one is happy all the time, bouts of sadness, despondency, and even depression are part of life, often reflective in nature, they are our minds way of processing and readying us for the challenges of living.
Extended periods of sadness are not good, loss of hope and belief in ourselves and the love we share with others is not healthy. Depression creeps slowly into our lives and alienates us for ourselves and others around us, it reduces our ability to connect emotionally.
Depression takes many forms and shows itself in different ways: substance abuse, withdrawal, apathy, self-harm, rejection of loved ones to mention a few.
Often caused by a complex and intricate interaction between neuroreceptors, behavioural adaptations, and deep-seated emotions, depression can take hold quickly and very thoroughly.
The key to addressing depression is the recognition that one is in a depressed state and in need of support to turn the tide of almost insurmountable despondency.
Central to this is an understanding of the causes of this change in life perspectives and how it is a temporary state and that with support, therapy, guidance and a renewed view of ourselves and life we can and will overcome it.