Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. My speech today is 'Depression, So Near So Far'.
I had a black dog, his name was Depression. Whenever the black dog made an appearance, I felt empty and life seemed to slow down. He liked to ruin my appetite. He chewed up my memory and ability to concentrate.
These words are written by Matthew Johnstone, who is an author, illustrator, and public speaker. He describes and illustrates his feelings and the conditions in Depression so vividly, this is because he had ever suffered from Depression.
Well, as the offical reports shows that China has almost 90 millions people had suffered from Derepssion. Depression is very near to us. But most people have little knowledge about it and feel ashamed to talk about it, so it also seems far to us. The truth is that there were many people suicide becuse of Depression every year, including a lot of famous people, such as 张国荣, Robin Williams, and so on.
So, what is Depression? What result in Depression? How to overcome Depression?
Depression is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.
If you have been experiencing some of the following signs and symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression:
Persistent sad, anxious, or empty mood
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts.
Well, I tell you a true story. Two years ago, I also suffered from Moderate Depression. One day, I found that I hadn't slept for two whole days. At same time, I had lost all joy in life, cannot stop thinking and saying the negative things, hated to communicate with people. I did not know what happened to me? I went to see a doctor, and finally I know this is Depression!
But why I have Depression? Before that, I am a so proactive, energetic, and optimistic person. After understanding a lot of Depression related knowledge, I learned that Depression doesn't matter who you are, it is an equal opportunity.
Current research suggests that Depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. The risk factors include:
Personal or family history of depression
Major life changes, or stress
Certain physical illnesses
For me, the reason may be the high work stress, and major life changes. About two years before Depression, my husband quited his job to start his own business and the new company did not develop well for a long time. During those period, I worried about our future, and did not handle the pressure well. I was under this kind of condition for a long time, my brain began to make some chemical change and have a Depression finally.
So, to avoid the suffer to your brain, we should ask for help if you suffer a problem and cannot solve it by yourself.
But, if you are suffering from Depression, How to overcome it?
Actually, Depression, even the most severe cases, can be treated. The earlier that treatment can begin, the more effective it is. Recognizing depression and seeking help is the first and most critical towards recovery. Depression is usually treated with medications, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two.
After I suffered from Depression, I read a lot of Depression related articles and books, and finally find out some good ways of my own:
Quiet your mind. Book and Music are very good ways.
Regular exercise. Such as long-distance running, sport.
Writing your thoughts on paper.
The most important thing to remember is that no matter how bad it gets, if you take the right steps, talk to the right people, Depression days can and will pass.
Once you overcome Depression, you will be grateful for the Black Dog. It is an incredible teacher. Just as Matthew Johnstone said, Depression forced me to re-evaluate and simplify my life. I learned that rather than running away from my problems it's better to embrace them.
At last, I want to say, never be afraid to ask for help when you are in difficulty or Depression.
Thank you!