This content mentions suicide, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, depression, and anxiety. Please read with care. If you or someone you know needs help, contact one of the support resources listed at the end.

Summary

 

Depression can range from mild to severe, affecting your mood, body, and behavior. It can make everyday activities harder to manage and, in severe cases, lead to feelings of hopelessness or thoughts of suicide. If you're struggling, know that you’re not alone—there is help available in Kenya.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Depression?

 

Depression affects individuals in different ways, but common emotional and physical symptoms include:

 

• Emotional symptoms:

 

• Sadness, feeling tearful or upset
• Guilt or feeling worthless
• Restlessness or irritability
• Feeling empty or numb
• Low self-confidence or self-esteem
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
• Helplessness or hopelessness
• Anxiety or worry
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm

 

• Physical symptoms:

 

• Tiredness, lack of energy
• Moving or speaking slowly
• Sleep problems (insomnia or early waking)
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Digestive issues like constipation
• Loss of libido or sexual problems
• Unexplained aches and pains

 

• Behavioral changes:

 

• Avoiding friends and social situations
• Struggling at work, school, or home
• Difficulty making decisions or concentrating
• Memory issues

 

In severe cases, some people experience psychosis, where they may hear or see things that aren't there, or believe things that aren't true.

 

Different Types of Depression

 

Your doctor might diagnose you with mild, moderate, or severe depression based on the severity of your symptoms. They may also identify a specific type of depression:

 

Dysthymia: Mild, long-term depression that lasts for years.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression with a seasonal pattern, often worse during rainy or cooler months.

Postnatal Depression: Depression experienced by some parents after childbirth. Some experience antenatal depression during pregnancy.

What Causes Depression?

Depression is complex and can be triggered by a combination of factors, including:

 

• Genetics
• Physical health problems
• Stressful life events – unemployment, relationship issues, bullying, or assault
• Childhood experiences

 

Sometimes, there may not be an obvious cause, and that’s okay.

 

Getting Support in Kenya

 

The first step is to speak to a healthcare professional or visit your local clinic. Many people delay seeking help, but the sooner you speak up, the sooner you can begin recovering.

 

Common treatments for depression include:

 

Self-help: Your doctor might offer self-help resources like books, online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or recommend regular exercise. Studies show that physical activity can help alleviate depression.

 

Talking therapies: These include therapies such as CBT, interpersonal therapy, and counseling. In Kenya, you can access counseling services through organizations like Chiromo Mental Health Hospital or Amani Counseling Centre.

 

Medication: Antidepressants can be prescribed by a doctor if needed. There are different types of antidepressants, so if one doesn’t work for you, another may. Typically, these medications take one to two weeks to start working.

 

Self-help Tips for Depression

 

You can take steps to improve your mental health and aid your recovery:

 

Talk to someone you trust: Sharing your feelings can help reduce feelings of isolation.

Eat well: A balanced diet can support your mental health.

Stay physically active: Exercise, even light activities like walking, can improve mood.

Spend time in nature: Being outdoors has been shown to lift your mood.

Avoid smoking and alcohol: While they may seem to provide temporary relief, they often worsen depression in the long term.

Practice mindfulness: This technique helps you stay present and can reduce symptoms of depression.

Consider therapy: Talking therapies like CBT or mindfulness-based cognitive therapy can help maintain mental health if you’ve experienced depression before.

Where to Find Help in Kenya

If you're struggling with depression, these resources can provide immediate support:

 

Chiromo Mental Health Hospital

Phone: +254 723 286 853

A leading mental health hospital in Nairobi offering counseling and psychiatric services.

 

Remember, recovery is possible, and there’s no shame in seeking help. Reach out to these services if you or someone you know is in need.