One way or another, we have all once said, “I am depressed!”. No matter how happy you are in your life, there will be ups and downs that made you who you are today. But, what if the ups lasted 5 minutes and there will be months and months of downs?

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder is a psychological condition that affects your feelings and behaviour. A depressed person will likely to feel sad, feelings of unworthiness, feeling hopeless and many others. Depression can also affect how a person acts physically. For example, when a person is feeling depressed, they cannot eat or sleep.

Anyone, from children to young adults to senior citizen can get depressed. It is very prevalent and people should take notice of it. Here are some of the symptoms of a depressed person:

• constant feelings of sadness, irritability, or tension
• decreased interest or pleasure in usual activities or hobbies
• loss of energy, feeling tired despite lack of activity
• a change in appetite, with significant weight loss or weight gain
• a change in sleeping patterns, such as difficulty sleeping, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much
• restlessness or feeling slowed down
• decreased ability to make decisions or concentrate
• feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or guilt
• thoughts of suicide or death

(symptoms cited from depression.com )

If you are feeling any of these symptoms for a long period of time, you should consult a doctor because depression can lead to many health complications and some can even lead to suicide. What are the ways to conquer depression? Well, the only thing that should help a depressed person is seeing a therapist. According to the National Healthcare Quality Report, 80% of depressed people are not currently having any treatment. So, hop on in your car, and go see a therapist! It is hard to get moving and see a doctor when you do not feel well already, ask your friends to help you so that they can find a health care professional for you.

Therapists are people who are well trained and has a good knowledge of all mental health issues. They can help you learn and understand how you feel and help you cope with the weird feelings you may have in your life. A therapy session is very confidential and they are sworn to keep your secrets (legally bounded to be confidential, unless you have plans to harm another person or yourself). There is no need to keep a secret from your therapy because a therapist need to know all about you before helping you out. Besides, you don’t even know the therapist, why must you be shy?

A therapist will always get to know you first before any session (so, they will ask you questions!), so loosen up and try to tell the therapist whatever that is on your mind. A therapist will never judge you as they are there to help you. Of course, you will not feel comfortable talking to a total stranger. Give it time, and he or she will be the person you want to talk to. A session usually lasts about 30 - 60 minutes and the whole therapy sessions could last as long as the therapist thinks is suitable for each situation (usually for a few weeks to months).

In Malaysia, seeing a shrink is not the most feasible option. Hardly anyone has heard of a therapist in Malaysia, but in fact, there are many practising therapists in Malaysia. What are the ways to get hold of a therapist?

First, you can always go to a hospital or clinic and the doctors there will refer you to the nearest psychologist, counselor or psychiatrist near you.

You can also always call clinics listed here on the Malaysian Mental Health Association(MMHA). There’s a Depression Support Group (DSG) Gathering that is organized by the MMHA that occurs every other week for you to seek help.

If you’re still in college or university, there’s always a college counselor who will gladly help you.

Even in some workplace, there are resident counselors who are available. If that person is someone you know and it would be awkward, ask the counselor to give you lists of contact numbers of available counselors.

Seeing a shrink is just too embarrassing, try calling BeFrienders Malaysia (03-7956 8144). They are always available to help you through the phone, email or even by meeting them.

So there you have it. All possible ways to find a shrink. Depression cannot be taken lightly and please check on your friends and see if they are alright. A little concern can help save lives.

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