Among the mental health disorders, depression is one of the most common that affects people from all walks of life regardless of age and gender. The World Health Organization reports that there are no less than 120 million people affected by the disorder which is the leading cause of disability. Higher incidence of depression is predicted to rise due to the stressful lifestyle of modern living. For this reason, depression should be immediately treated once symptoms are present. Medical health professionals such as psychiatrist are equipped with training and education to handle depression ranging from mild cases to severe ones. Common symptoms of depression include change in eating or sleeping habits, lethargy, feelings of low self-esteem, disinterest in hobbies, loss of focus on tasks, and social withdrawal. Some people disregard the symptoms thinking that it is normal to feel blue from time to time; however, unchecked recurrent bouts with depression can become complicated as it develops to a more sever type known as bipolar depressions. There is also a high correlation between depression and suicide since most people who commit suicide are initially depressed. The key to solving mental health depression is effective primary healthcare. As soon as symptoms are detected, an individual can consult a psychiatrist for a complete assessment of the severity and type of depression.

There are many types of depression such as Seasonal Affective Disorder, Post-partum(for women who gave birth), substance induced, bipolar disorder, major depression or even psychotic. Once an accurate type of depression is diagnosed, appropriate treatment can be given. Mental health depression is usually treated by antidepressant medications such as Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). These are newer types of medicines that usually correct the chemical imbalance in the brain and thereby improve mood. Increased levels of norepinephrine helps in fighting depression. There are some types of depression ( like bipolar disorder) that are unresponsive to mild medications and are usually treated with Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) . However, MAOIs are not well tolerated by some people since it has side effects. It is also possible to combine medication with psychotherapy to relieve depression. Having a health professional to share one’s thoughts with is comforting and therapeutic. Lastly, depression can also be fought by getting adequate sleep (7-8 hrs. daily) that would relax the mind and body so it can build immunity against other diseases.