Depression from a psychological perspective: self-testing, treatment, and a positive mindset

In today's society, the term "depression" is very common, and this strange mental illness has begun to lurk around most people. With the further intensification of competition in modern society, the number of people suffering from depression is increasing day by day. According to statistics from the World Health Organization, the global incidence of depression is about 2% to 5%, while in my country, it is estimated that more than 30 million people suffer from it, with urban white-collar workers and students becoming the "new favorites" of depression.

(1) Self-test for depression

Currently, the criteria for diagnosing depression mainly focus on the patient exhibiting the "three lows": low mood, slowed thinking, and despondency.

Specifically, the main symptoms of depression include: being in a state of persistent fatigue that is difficult to recover from after rest; frequent self-blame, low self-esteem, and feelings of guilt; insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, shallow sleep, and frequent awakenings; decreased libido and lack of interest in the opposite sex; low mood, prone to sadness, recurring suicidal thoughts, and even suicidal behavior.

In China, men value their reputation and often equate depression with weakness and shame. Therefore, men tend to mask their depression with other behaviors. Men's depressive symptoms are not always typical; besides irritability and alcoholism, some may exhibit symptoms such as excessive work, easily angered by minor things, impulsive smashing of objects, or domestic violence. These situations are usually related to family conflicts, financial difficulties, or work stress, and are also manifestations of depression.

(2) Don’t blame yourself if you have depression.

Depression is an illness. Even if you have depression, don't blame yourself with "Why did I get this damn disease?" Instead, understand that what you urgently need right now is to actively embark on the path of seeking recovery and treatment.

Survey data shows that nearly 70% of male patients with depression avoid seeking medical help. In fact, male depression is more easily cured. Therefore, men who are diagnosed with depression should seek treatment promptly.

During treatment, it is important to strictly follow the treatment plan, take medication as prescribed, and have regular check-ups. In addition to medical treatment, it is also important to take care of yourself, maintain an optimistic attitude, do not be discouraged, tell yourself that recovery will take time, do not rush, and often tell yourself "everything will be alright".

(3) Men can also "show weakness".

Men often want to project an image of strength and are therefore reluctant to show weakness in front of others. However, everyone has a vulnerable side. Constantly concealing one's weaknesses and only highlighting one's strength and competence can easily lead to a loss of self and a drift further and further away from one's true self.

If you are diagnosed with depression, it's important to seek treatment promptly. In the meantime, it's okay to show vulnerability to help you recover faster. During treatment, communicate frequently with family and doctors, and avoid making major life decisions. The ability to make significant decisions is impaired during depression; therefore, wait until you are fully recovered and your decision-making abilities have returned before making any major decisions.

(4) A positive attitude contributes to mental health.

The causes of depression in men are often related to stress. Promotions, demotions, successes and failures at work, as well as births, aging, illnesses, deaths, weddings and funerals in the family, can all cause psychological turmoil.

Family can help rebuild mental health, and one can also regulate their mindset by learning traditional culture and cultivating hobbies. At this time, it is even more important to establish genuine interpersonal relationships. These relationships are different from those formed based on self-interest; genuine relationships provide a sense of belonging, and true friends are also a way to release emotions.

Gaining attention and help from family members, receiving care from friends, and having the courage to seek treatment can all help one get rid of depression as soon as possible.

Health Class

Depression is not a sign of physical weakness, nor is it a problem unique to women. It is an illness, and it is treatable. Therefore, if you have depression, you should not avoid seeking medical help or try to tough it out; you should actively seek treatment.