People with depression need better support   

Depression is a mental health issue that affects millions of people worldwide, including in Hong Kong. Recent tragic events, such as the sudden passing of singer CoCo Lee, have brought greater attention to the severity of depression and the need to provide assistance to those struggling with it.

In Hong Kong, over 300,000 individuals have been affected by depression, highlighting the crucial importance of understanding its nature and exploring strategies to improve the well-being of those who are affected by it.

Depression is a complex mental health condition that extends beyond mere unhappiness. It is caused by a dysregulation of brain chemicals triggered by stressors, affecting the individual's perception of life events. Common symptoms include insomnia, lethargy and thoughts of suicide or self-harm. While anyone can develop depression, those with a family history of the condition are at a higher risk. Understanding the signs and symptoms of depression is crucial for identifying individuals in need of help and support.

In Hong Kong, given the seriousness of the problem, it is essential to encourage individuals experiencing persistent low mood or unhappiness that interferes with their daily lives to seek assistance from social workers or medical professionals. The speed at which depression worsens varies from person to person, so family members and friends should be attentive to signs such as insomnia, loss of interest, and expressions of suicidal thoughts. Early intervention can prevent the deterioration of the condition and improve outcomes. Research indicates that many suicide cases involve victims who sought help before their tragic act. Therefore, when faced with someone expressing suicidal thoughts, family members and friends should adopt a "listen more, talk less" approach and guide the patient toward professional support. Seeking medical help is not limited to individuals diagnosed with depression; anyone experiencing persistent unhappiness can seek assistance from social workers or doctors. Additionally, even individuals experiencing symptoms of depression without a formal diagnosis should not hesitate to seek help, as professional support is available at this stage.

Depression is not just a pro-longed period of unhappiness; it manifests as a multidimensional experience, including a range of physical and emotional symptoms. These symptoms may encompass changes in appetite and sleep patterns, loss of interest and motivation, as well as negative thoughts regarding the future and self-worth. Anxiety often coexists with depression, forming a vicious cycle where the inability to sleep leads to reduced work performance and diminished self-esteem.

To improve the situation of those living with depression in Hong Kong, establishing a supportive environment is paramount. We must first overcome the social stigma associated with mental health issues and foster open discussions about depression. By encouraging individuals to share their experiences, we can cultivate empathy and understanding throughout the community. This can be achieved through public awareness campaigns, educational programs in schools and workplaces, as well as community support groups.

Depression poses significant challenges to individuals who are affected by this condition. A supportive environment is crucial to promoting early intervention. By encouraging the affected individuals to seek professional help, the lives of those with depression can be greatly improved and many suicide cases can be prevented.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

Lau Kin-shing

The author is vice-president of the Hong Kong Psychological Consultancy and Counseling Association, an International Certified Hypnotherapist instructor, and a senior Chinese psychological counselor and course instructor.