WHEN was the last time you were sad? Did you have a good cry or did you treat yourself to something you enjoy and felt better afterwards? If you’re anything like me, you probably did both.

Almost everyone experiences periods of sadness or worry, it’s a normal part of life. When it becomes a mental disorder — that is, depression — is when the periods of sadness are persistent and prolonged and start to interfere with normal life.

Depression can be defined as a persistent mood disorder that affects the brain and the body. It results in overwhelming feelings of sadness, has major impact on the way a person feels about themselves, and the way one thinks about things. It also affects basic activities such as eating, sleep and even sex, it can provoke suicidal thoughts and can basically derail a person’s whole life if left untreated.

In Jamaica, studies have indicated that we have a serious problem with depression. The Jamaica Health and Lifestyle Survey 2007-2008 found that 20 per cent of respondents aged 15-74 reported symptoms of depression experienced within the weeks prior.

With such a scary disorder impacting so many persons, why aren’t we talking about it more? Why is it that so many persons are still in the dark about depression?

As a self-proclaimed mental health disorder “light shiner”, I feel it is my duty to help demystify the disorder of depression by clarifying some common errors in thought.

It’s not just sadness

Persons who struggle with depression oftentimes cannot “snap out of it” and certainly cannot get better with positive thoughts and attitude. Depression is a mental disorder caused by chemical imbalances in the brain and in many, if not all cases, persons who suffer need the help of a professional who will prescribe sessions of psychotherapy (talk therapy) or doses of antidepressant medication.

It’s not a woman’s disease

Did you know that men are more likely to commit suicide than women? Shocking right since studies have recorded more women struggling with depression. The truth is, because of all the pressure society puts on men and the general view mental illnesses as the struggle of the weak, many men aren’t comfortable discussing their feelings or asking for help. Instead many suffer in silence.

It may not get better with time

Jamaicans love to say that time heals all wounds. But when it comes to depression, many persons cannot will themselves better with time. Persons who struggle with depression experience symptoms that can last for months and if left untreated, even years.

It’s not just in their head

Depression is not a made condition and it’s not limited to the mind. Persons who suffer from depression often experience symptoms such as; headaches, appetite changes, digestive challenges, sexual dysfunction, back and neck pains, muscle and joint aches as well as insomnia and fatigue… just to name a few.

The main thing to remember is that depression is a real mental health disorder and more importantly, it is treatable. I highly recommend anyone struggling with depressive thoughts or symptoms to speak to a mental health professional who will be able to help you cope with or overcome your disorder. All the best!

Sereta Thompson is a public relations professional and mental health advocate. She can be contacted at seretaathompson@gmail.com Follow her on Instagram: @ShadesOfSerri