Olumurewa Akande.

We are already running on seven weeks after resumption, and the academic load is becoming so overwhelming that if one is not careful, one might be so stressed and worked up that one might start conceiving the notion of being  “depressed”. People have different misconceptions about the word ‘depression’ because they consider being depressed as cute and fashionable, so when it looks like they are displaying signs that align with depression, they just conclude that they are ‘depressed’. 

Depression, however, is a very serious issue that should not be taken lightly, especially amongst students, as there has been an increase in the rate at which students fall into depression lately. According to statistics, the Northwestern region of Nigeria has the highest depression prevalence (45.9%), followed by the South-South region (33%), Southeastern (22.1%), and Southwestern region (18.1%). Therefore, it is crucial to regard depression as a pressing issue rather than a mere term.

So, what exactly is depression? Depression is a constant feeling of sadness and loss of interest, which stops you from doing your normal duties; with emphasis placed on constant. Taking note of the definition, what really makes people depressed? Well, there is no particular cause of depression, as there are different things that could trigger it. It could be a stressful life event like witnessing the death of a loved one, it could be due to the fact that someone has lived through abuse, it could be as a result of getting bad grades or failing, or it could be genetic. There are different factors and reasons that trigger depression. 

Now, what are the signs that you are depressed? When one starts feeling hopeless, empty, sad, fearful, and having anger fits or irritability or frustration over small matters. Another sign is the loss of interest or pleasure from most or all activities such as hobbies or sports. Also, people suffering from depression find it difficult to concentrate on schoolwork; some derive pleasure from oversleeping, some experience insomnia, and some have a decrease or increase in appetite. Also, if these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, then one is considered to be depressed. And it should be noted that depression could last for weeks, months, and years.

However, there are some misconceptions surrounding depression. For instance, because someone is introverted, the individual does not like public spaces but prefers his or her private space rather than relating with the public, so the person is often alone and quiet. Some people assume that such individuals could be suffering from depression; due to their lack of interaction with others. Being socially awkward does not mean you are depressed; you are just shy and wary of public spaces, but you do not fit into the definition of a depressed person. Therefore, people should stop assuming that their fellow quiet, gentle, and easygoing coursemate is depressed because he or she has refused to have a conversation with anyone.

Moreover, suffering from mood swings or anger issues do not automatically mean depression, this is a myth.  Also,  being sad and frustrated due to lack of food and hunger, makes some people start assuming that they are depressed.  These are just various misconceptions that people have about depression and this should not be the case as depression is a significant issue that should not be trivialized.

Furthermore, being sad is not the same as being depressed. Feeling down or sad and being depressed are two different things. Depression can be brought on by feelings of sadness but feeling down doesn’t last as long as an episode of depression. Depression can last from a few weeks to an entire year, unlike sadness, therefore, depression usually doesn’t go away on its own. People with depression have many other emotions other than feeling sad. They may feel anxious, tense, empty, or other negative emotions. Depression also doesn’t go away with time or encouragement from friends and loved ones like sadness does. So they are two different things that are often misinterpreted by people.

Lastly, there is no one-size-fits-all experience for depression. Just because depression feels one way for one person does not mean it would feel the same way for another person. Also, it is important to seek medical help and treatment.