By Olasunkanmi Onifade
Abuja – Dr Olusola Ephraim-Oluwanuga, Chief Consultant Psychiatrist, National Hospital Abuja, on Friday said improper management of challenges of life could lead to depression.
Ephraim-Oluwanuga said this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja to commemorate the 2017 World Health Day, with the theme “Let’s talk Depression”.
According to him, depression is a common and serious mental illness that negatively affects the way one feel, think and act.
“It is good to talk when feeling depressed, the stigma, the secrecy about mental health issues is much, it does not allow people depressed to open up to talk with bridging people’s confidence.
“People who are depressed would rather prefer to talk to someone they have confidence in than someone that gossip about them,” he said.
The expert said a depressed person sharing their challenges with a psychiatrist or family members could bring relief.
He said depression causes mental anguish and impacts on people’s ability to carry out consequences for relationships with family and friends.
Ephraim-Oluwanuga said some of the symptoms of depression include change in appetite, sex, loss of energy and feeling worthless.
He said depression can vary from mild or severe, adding that with proper diagnosis and treatment the vast majority of people with depression would overcome it.
Dr Ada Ikeako, a Consultant Psychiatrist in a private hospital in Abuja, said sadness was only a small part of depression.
“Some people with depression may not feel sad at all. Depression has many other symptoms, including physical ones.
“If you have been experiencing any of the following signs and symptoms for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression:
“Persistent sadness, anxiety or `empty’ mood feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities,” Ikeako said.
She said when depression gets severe one needs to consult a professional.
NAN reports that the World Health Day is celebrated on April 7 of every year.
