- Clinical Psychologist
Alisha Bhattarai
At one point of time or other, people tend to get irritated and frustrated repeatedly, is it a depression?
Frustration and irritation are symptoms related to depression but just based on these symptoms we cannot be sure that it is a depression. To be diagnosed as a depression, along with these two specific symptoms, there must be presence of other significant symptoms of depression as well. According to ICD 10, depressed mood, loss of interest and enjoyment, and increased fatigability are usually regarded as the most typical symptoms of depression. Losing interest in sex and other usual habits, reduced self-esteem, disturbed sleep, diminished appetite, feelings of guilt, ideas of self harming, etc. are the common symptoms of depression.
Now, it is clear that only having symptoms like frustration and irritation are not sufficient to define depression, but it is better to consult with a professional for an accurate diagnosis. The most important thing that we must keep in mind is that frustration and irritation are not only associated with depression but also with many other psychological disorders. So, we must be alert if there are any other associated symptoms.
What is the best way to help a patient overcome trauma?
In a country like ours where several traumatic events frequently occur, knowledge of handling cases of trauma is very important. When people go through painful events, they feel that their life is in danger; they see themselves as being abused; they see people dying and being injured and sometimes, as losing very close ones. These kinds of events affect them very differently than other less painful situations, e.g. normal small accidents. These are experienced as very frightening and painful occurrences that are beyond their control which weakens them internally, and flashbacks of the events became like electric shocks. In this condition, generally, people try to forget those painful events and don’t want to talk about them, but it is not a very good idea. It is good for victims to share their internal feelings and reactions to the event with the people they trust. Talking more about the pain and the painful events rather than suppressing them inside the brain helps to provide relief and enable them to cope with the problem. First thing we have to do is to motivate them to explain about the events and the hidden fear. We can also coordinate with close friends of the victims as well to handle the situation. Beside these, helping the victim resuming their usual activities, making them aware about safety even in simple situations and taking proper care of their health are the significant needs in these cases. If we can take the victim to the psychologists/counselors who are experienced in these cases, it will enhance the recovery process.
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