Depression Is Not Disgrace, But Mental Diseases Must Be Handled Seriously

JAKARTA - Depression is not just a feeling of sadness. This is a serious mental health condition that can affect the way a person thinks, feels, and lives his daily life.

Unfortunately, there are still many stigmas attached to people with depression, making them reluctant to seek help. In fact, depression is a medical condition that can be experienced by anyone, and it is not a shame.

Public awareness of the importance of proper handling of depression is the key in supporting the recovery of survivors.

Psychiatrist dr. Adhi Wibowo Nurhidayat, SpKJ(K), graduated from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, emphasized that people with depression should not be underestimated.

"We have to say that depression is not something taboo. This can be experienced by anyone and not a disgrace," said Adhi in a discussion on mental health in Jakarta.

He emphasized the importance of the role of the family and the closest environment in supporting the recovery process. One form of support that can be given is to remind sufferers not to hurt themselves and immediately seek professional assistance.

Regarding access to treatment, Adhi explained that the public does not need to worry about costs. Mental health services can now be accessed through BPJS Kesehatan.

"If you don't have money, take advantage of BPJS. The government has covered medical expenses ranging from anti-depression drugs to anti-mass drugs," he explained.

Furthermore, Adhi said that depression is a chronic disease that requires continuous treatment. He explained that there are three main symptoms or trias of depression, namely loss of interest and pleasure, physical and psychological fatigue, as well as prolonged feelings of gloomy feelings such as deep sadness, crying for no reason, or vacuum.

"If these three symptoms last more than two weeks, most likely they have entered the category of depression," he added.

In addition to the main symptoms, depression is also often accompanied by sleep disorders, changes in appetite (either excessive or drastically decreased), and sexual problems.

Adhi also reminded about the condition of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or depression that did not respond to standard treatment. According to him, TRD tends to last longer, is three times more difficult to cure, and has a higher recovery rate than ordinary depression.

"What is more worrying is that the risk of suicide in TRD sufferers can be seven times higher," said Adhi, who also teaches at the Faculty of Medicine, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta.