By Radha, 6X
On Wednesday, 14 October 2020, Dyatmika’s World Mental Health Day Committee held a Wellness Day. In the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic, a wellness day is very important. Life has become full of uncertainties for everyone. The topic of mental health is something that many people avoid. For some, they might not know how to address it.
Sometimes when people are faced with different changes and challenges, it can be overwhelming. People can feel sad, tired, angry, anxious, have panic attacks, and even fall into depression without even knowing it. Depression can range from light to severe. It is where you feel low spirited and lack the energy or courage to do anything. It can feel like a huge cloud of negativity that not only rains but pours, and it feels like there is no getting rid of it. Sadness and depression are totally different.
Did you know that there are more people with this illness now than ever before? Depression is a mental illness that can affect your daily life. Unlike sadness, it is not something you can get over right away.
Symptoms of depression may include spending too much time alone, restlessness, loss of energy, change in appetite, sleeping too much, insomnia, loss of interest, fatigue, loss of focus, slowness, feeling worthless, memory problems, and thoughts about suicide.
If you are depressed, do things that interest you. This is hard but it can lift your mood. Reach out to people, join a group for tackling depression, confide in someone you trust, get a pet, go outside, exercise, go to your school’s counselor.
Do’s and don’ts when witnessing depression. Do comfort that person. Don’t rush them. Do listen. Don’t interrupt or criticize, and don’t compare your problems to theirs. If they start threatening to harm themselves or others, seek help immediately!
Depression is an underrated problem and has huge impact. I want to spread mental health awareness. After all, being aware can help us deal with this illness. Let’s help those in need.
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