Attitude adjustment can lower risks for depression-related suicide

The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that suicide ranks among the top 10 causes of death, and that men are three times more likely to succeed in ending their own lives than women. There are many causes linked to suicide, including accumulated stress from school, work, family, or health issues, which leave the person feeling there’s no solution except to end life by suicide. Apart from these externals, an internal factor that can lead to suicide is depression, which often goes undetected. 

Research shows that depression is linked to chemical imbalances in the brain, especially of serotonin and norepinephrine. Medication can alleviate the symptoms by adjusting the levels of such hormones. However, there are many factors that cause depression, and it is important that the sufferer speaks to a doctor to find the right solution. Also important is the attitude of the public towards depression. If a family member is depressed, how well the sufferer recovers is partly down to the attitude of the people with whom he or she lives. Today, our society is more aware of depression, and it is widely discussed, aided by more information about the issue online and on TV. But, sometimes, depression is presented as something terrifying, which causes worry over the issue. 

So what is depression? Who is at risk? And what should you do if you feel depressed? A simple explanation would be helpful: 

Sadness is a basic emotion. Everyone goes through sad events in life caused by, say, loss or a difficulty. Usually, sadness comes and goes, and mood improves as the person adjusts to the situation. Some even benefit from sadness, as it provides impetus for them to succeed in life. Depression, however, lasts longer and is more severe. The sufferer might feel deeply sad and upset throughout the day for more than two weeks, without any improvement. It affects the thinking process, decision-making skills, and daily life. Often, depressed people lose interest in everything around them. They don’t want to do anything. 

Other symptoms include a drastic change in appetite, such as having no desire for food at all, or overeating even without hunger. A significant weight gain or weight loss – more than 5 per cent of body weight within a month – is a good indicator of depression. Sleeping patterns also change. Some sufferers cannot sleep, or wake up soon after falling asleep. Some sleep all day and do not want to get up. 

Behaviour also changes – sufferers can become very inactive, while others become overactive. There can also be physical symptoms, such as back pain, headache, inability to concentrate, poor memory, making many mistakes, lack of confidence, low self-esteem, hopelessness, and thoughts about suicide. 

Self-blaming and repetitive thoughts about suicide are also signs of depression. It is very important to recognise the signs, since most people who are depressed are not aware of it, or do not have the motivation to seek help. Family and friends who notice signs of depression should be understanding and express genuine willingness to help. Proper treatment often helps. Typically, sufferers battle both with themselves and the people around them. Some interpret depression as laziness and weakness, and might criticise sufferers with harsh judgements. Some think that depression is not a big deal and dismiss it. Others tend to give generic advice: “Don’t think about it” or “It’s not the end of the world”. These reactions are not supportive of sufferers. If you are depressed, the first thing to understand is that it is just like any other illness – such as diabetes or high blood pressure. It can happen to anyone, and is nothing to be ashamed of. You can tell your family or close friends about it. In Thailand, around 5 per cent of the population suffers depression. If the symptoms are severe – having suicidal thoughts or not being able to cope with daily life – it is important to seek help immediately. Speaking to an expert, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can help.

There are many effective treatment methods for depression today, including medication to help adjust chemical imbalances in the brain, or therapies to help adjust destructive attitudes. A change in self-perception can help combat depression. Certain activities can be therapeutic as well. Treatments are based on the type and severity of the case. Usually, medication, therapy and activities are used together for best results. However, love and understanding from family and friends is also a crucial part of recovery. 

 

Dr Jitarin Jaidee is Attending Psychiatrist at the Bangkok Hospital’s Mental Health Rehabilitation and Recovery Centre (BMRC). September 10 (Wednesday) was World Suicide Prevention Day.