Depression is a
mental health disease affecting millions of people worldwide. But if we talk particularly about Pakistan
then depressive disorder is the most common disease that affects 90% of people.
The percentage of females in Pakistan is higher than males in depressive
disorder. A main factor in this increasing ratio was a lack of mental health
awareness. But now in Pakistan, different awareness programs are encouraged to
get people aware of this disease and get treatment on time. Still, a number of people
are struggling to understand and manage this disease because they don't know
about it, so let's discuss in detail its symptoms, causes, and treatments
available in Pakistan.
What
is Depression?
Depression is
medically known as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). It is a mood condition that
particularly impacts a person's thoughts, feelings, and behavior in day-to-day
activities. If we compare it to the normal feeling of people then all
experience sadness, or loss but depression is a consistent feeling that can
affect the daily activities of people, their productivity at work,
relationships, and overall their life. Depression is common here due to a
number of factors, including societal pressures, political difficulties,
economic instability, and natural disasters. Pakistan is a cultural country
which is why the stigma associated with mental health restricts people from
getting anxiety
treatment in Pakistan as well as the lack of resources needed for
mental health services. That's why promoting awareness and providing easily
accessible treatments are essential.
Common
Symptoms of Depression
Persistent Sadness and Low Mood: The
common symptoms of depression are having strong feelings of sadness, despair,
or a persistently low mood that does not go away. People do not take an
interest in the things that they like which can lead them to retreat and
isolate themselves.
Fatigue and Lack of Energy: Most
depressed people say that they feel tired all the time even after sleeping a
number of hours. People face difficulties in doing their jobs, taking care of
their homes, or communicating with others due to this ongoing exhaustion.
Changes in Sleep Patterns: One of the
most common signs of depression is sleep disturbance which can cause
hypersomnia in which people sleep too much, insomnia, or early morning
awakenings.
Appetite and
Weight Changes: Changes in appetite can
cause weight gain or loss. When this symptom increases people get depressed due
to both physical health and self-esteem.
Having trouble focusing or making
decisions: Depressed people usually face Cognitive issues, such as memory
loss, inability to focus, and difficulty making decisions. This can make it
more difficult for a person to perform their regular tasks.
Suicidal Behaviors or Thoughts: In the
higher level of depression, people also have suicidal or self-harming thoughts.
You can't leave someone alone when they're depressed at this risky level.
Understanding
the Causes of Depression in Pakistan
There are various
causes of depression including:
Socioeconomic
Pressures
Financial stress
and anxiety are increasing due to high rates of poverty, job instability, and
inflation in Pakistan. These socioeconomic challenges disturb their mental
health condition and cause depression.
Cultural
and familial expectations
Pakistani culture
places a strong emphasis on families who have high expectations. People,
especially women, have great pressure from these traditional expectations which
causes despair, poor self-esteem, and a sense of restriction.
Conflict
and Trauma
Pakistan has a high
rate of trauma-related depression, which becomes worse due to unstable
politics, terrorism, and natural disasters. Depression is more likely to
develop in those who have experienced violence and emergencies, either directly
or indirectly.
Lack
of Mental Health Awareness and Stigma
As mental health is
frequently stigmatized in Pakistan, many hesitate to get treatment due to the
fear of being judged. This lack of understanding prevents early care, causing
symptoms to get worse and having a greater impact on individuals and families.
Effective
Treatments for Depression in Pakistan
To get out of
these challenges of depression people need effective treatments in Pakistan.
These treatments include a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle
changes.
Psychotherapy
(Talk Therapy)
Depression is
treated using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy
(IPT). Psychotherapy enables people to better manage their symptoms by helping
them understand their thoughts and actions. Although some private practitioners
and NGOs in Pakistan provide affordable therapy.
Medications
To balance the
brain chemicals, antidepressant medicines like selective serotonin reuptake
inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are
frequently used. These drugs should only be taken with the prescription of a
doctor because of the possibility of side effects. It is important to see a
qualified and best psychologist in Pakistan as
self-medication is risky.
Support
Groups and Community-Based Programs
Support groups
help people to feel less alone in their difficulties as they give them a sense
of encouragement and connection. In Pakistan, community-based mental health
programs are also increasing with the goal of providing help and public
awareness of mental health issues.
Modifications
to Lifestyle and Self-Care
For effective depression management, it is important to have a good diet, exercise daily, and get enough sleep. A healthy diet can help to balance energy levels and cognitive function and physical activities can help to stable your mood.