Suffering from Depression "is NOT about being sad, not enjoying your hobbies, or not interacting with friends and family feeling lonely for Just a Day or two or hiding your feelings not wanting to get up from the bed to brush or take a bath".

There are times when we feel low, unhappy, or sad when we lose a loved one or do not get the expected result or the desired job. Generally, in such situations with time we start feeling better and lead our normal routine life.

However, when you do not bounce back to your regular mood and daily activities it is a warning signal of depression.       

Depression is a medical condition which involves:

1. Recurrent and persistent low mood most of the time of the day
2. It interferes with an individual's daily routine, work
3. Difficulty maintaining relationships with family and friends 

It is an illness which needs to be evaluated and professionally treated. It is a common mental illness which is estimated to have affected every 1 in 3 people globally.

Following are some of the signs which can been observed in an individual:

1. Sadness of mood
2. Feeling of worthlessness and hopelessness
3. Lethargy
4. Disturbed sleep pattern
5. Social withdrawal
6. Decreased interest in previously enjoyed activities
7. Decreased attention and concentration
8. Suicidal ideation
9. Frequent and unexplained somatic complains

If you or anyone near you is expressing behavioural changes as mentioned for at least a period of 2weeks then seeking immediate medical help from a mental health professional is essential and advisable.

Depression results from complex interaction between social, psychological, and biological factors. If untreated or ignored it can even lead to more dysfunction and worsen the affected person’s life. Depression does not occur because of anyone being weak or lazy. Depression is a recognised medical condition which needs treatment at the earliest.

If you have ever taken treatment for depression share and talk about it share your experience so that people who are suffering are encouraged to seek timely help. Depression needs more conversation around and not be a Hidden Illness!!

By Dr. Divya Pal, Consultant- Mental Health and Behavioral Science, Fortis Kolkata