WHO: What to do when you are feeling depressed

The World Health Organisation (WHO) says adolescence and young adulthood can be a stressful period so has put out a list of to dos in case depression sets in.

Depression is an illness characterized by sadness, loss of interest in activities that were formally enjoyable and inability to carry out daily activities for at least two weeks.

WHO also says depression usually comes with the following- loss of energy; change in appetite, sleeping more or less, anxiety; reduced concentration; indecisiveness; feelings of worthlessness, guilt or hopelessness and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

According to WHO, here are some things to do if you think may be depressed:

• Talk to someone you trust about your feelings.
• Seek professional help. Your local health-care worker or doctor is a good place to start.
• Stay connected. Keep in contact with family and friends.
• Exercise regularly, even if it’s just a short walk.
• Stick to regular eating and sleeping habits.
• Avoid or restrict alcohol intake and refrain from using illicit drugs; they can worsen depression.
• Continue doing things you have always enjoyed, even when you don’t feel like it.
• Be aware of persistent negative thoughts and self-criticism and try to replace them with positive thoughts.
• Congratulate yourself on your achievements.