Depression

Marjorie T. Estrada

According to World Health Organization(WHO), depression is a common illness worldwide, with more than 264 million affected and it can lead to suicide. Close to 800,000 people die due to suicide every year. Suicide is the second leading cause of death in 15-29 year olds.

Due to the seemingly unstoppable spread of COVID-19 around the world, concerns about people’s mental health have grown. It was March 16, 2020 when President Rodrigo Duterte announced a total lockdown because of COVID19. Many people lost their jobs because many companies had faced financial instability. Because of losing a job, some people tend to underestimate their own capabilities which led them into thinking too much especially if they have family to support.

No one is ready or prepared for the outbreak of this newly discovered disease. This has had a major effect in all aspects of our lives. Institutions, public or private, companies and businesses were forced to shutdown as they couldn't cope up with the financial challenges brought by the pandemic. Schools have closed or were forced to implement online teaching and learning even without any preliminary preparations. After these issues aroused, most of the people are affected, not by the virus but rather, their mental health. As the new safety measures and protocols are introduced, it affects many people's usual activities outside, especially stress reliever activities. Lockdowns and quarantine measures have caused stress and strong anxiety to other people. As we all know, suffering from depression is not easy because most of the time, people who suffer from this kind of mental illness lead to suicidal. Many resorts to suicide sa they view death as the only way to end their suffering.

Unfortunately, many people have been very reluctant about this topic. Many treat people suffering with this illness indifferently. This is the reason why most people commit suicide. The good thing is we can do something to avoid this. People with depression need more caring and compassion. The simple act of listening to them and recognizing their challenge would mean a lot to them Moreover, continuous advice and moral support can also help them a lot to cope up with this illness.

In times of hardships like this, we must be aware of our mental health, especially youth nowadays. Being open and telling your problems to your family or to your friends can lessen the pain you are experiencing. Always remember that life is never easy to live. There are ups and downs. Problems and challenges are there; it is up to you how you can handle your life. If you will give up and let your problems consume you, well then, you lost. No one is more accountable for your life than you.

*****

I at Don Jesus Gonzales High School

The author is Teacher