Pumla* is a 35 year old female who has recently been retrenched. She has been having unusual mood swings and is scared that she may be suffering from depression.
Retrenchment is a very difficult time. Not only will you be struggling with financial and emotional issues, but it is normal to have mood swings and go through the five stages of grief: namely denial (“this can’t be happening to me”), anger (“why is this happening, who is to blame?”), bargaining (“make this not happen, in return I will..”), depression (“I’m too sad to do anything”) and acceptance (“I am at peace with what happened and I am moving on”).
If your emotions are out of proportion to the situation and are interfering in your usual day-to-day functioning, then you might be suffering from depression. If not managed correctly, retrenchment can lead to depression. It is important to speak to your doctor regarding counseling.
What is Depression?
Depression is a medical illness which affects ones mood, body, thoughts and feelings. There are three types of depression.
· Major depression disorder (MDD) is when a person suffers from a depressed mood or loss of interest and pleasure in most activities for at least a two week period.
· Dysthymia involves long-term, less severe chronic symptoms, but keeps one from functioning well or from feeling good.
· Bipolar Disorder is a common type of depression affecting 2 in every 5 people which tends to be ignored because people think that it is normal. It is a disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function.
People with a history of alcohol abuse, stress, a recent loss or separation, unemployment, retirement and being single, widowed or divorced are the most vulnerable to depression.
What are the Signs?
Depression affects everyone differently.
- Backache/ headaches
- Abnormal mood swings
- Disturbed sleep
- Loss of energy; and
- Appetite changes.
Top tips to help fight depression:
· Make time to relax
· Eat healthy meals
· Get out and socialise
· Talk about your feelings to someone you can trust
· Join a support group
· Take a moment to reflect on the positive things in your life
· Remember that this is just a phase, you will overcome this!
For more information contact:
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group on 0800 20 5026 or visit their website at www.sadag.co.za .
:-)
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