Depression Depression is common, yet severe mood disorder. Currently depression is major health concern as it is major cause for morbidity, disability and deaths among people. Patients suffering from depression are often stigmatized, under performers in academics and at work which affects socio-economic status of patient and family leading to poor quality of life. World Health Organization (WHO) has started LET’S TALK- Depression to help people suffering from depression and decreasing stigma about illness. Depression can affect anyone- any age group, any socio-economic strata, both male females are affected. Depression in children often present with symptoms of sadness and crying, irritability, temper tantrums, physical complaints (headache, stomach ache), loss of interest in studies and games leading to poor academic performance and disturbed family relations. Depression in old age is more of irritability, agitation, anger outburst, multiple somatic complaints like headache, backache, abdomen issues, decreased sleep and appetite. Postpartum depression- seen in women after delivery. This can be worse and affect both mother and child. If you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression: • Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood • Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism/ negative thoughts • Irritability • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities • Decreased energy or fatigue • Moving or talking more slowly • Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions • Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping • Appetite and/or weight changes • Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts • Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment Risk factors for depression include: • Personal or family history of depression (genetics/ hereditary) • Major life changes, trauma, or stress at home/personal life/at workplace • Death /loss/ grief • Past physical/sexual/ emotional abuse • New job/shifting to new home or city/having baby/divorce/marriage/retirement • Addictions- alcohol, cannabis, medications • Certain physical illnesses and medications Difference between depression/blue- Feeling sadness, loneliness, or grief when you go through a difficult life experience is part of being human. And most of the time, you can continue to function. You know that in time you will bounce back, and you do, But, if you don’t want to bounce back, feel more sad, more fatigue then its clinical depression based on complaints mentioned above. Treatment works best when you start it early. We at MINDWIN clinic help you in diagnosing depression clinically. Prescription of medications will be given along with psychotherapy- Cognitive behavioural therapy, stress management techniques, relaxation therapy. We must understand antidepressants take minimum 2-4 weeks for action and no two people will respond in same way as each one is different genetically, severity of illness and comorbid stressors and illness.