‘Excessive impact of social media can lead to depression’

The stigma of going to a psychiatrist is such that 30% of the patients coming to us have spent a long time with physicians. Most need simple medication. DR SHAHI RAI, chairperson, research and publication committee , IAPP

LUCKNOW: Depression troubles one in every four person, on an average. Among other reasons, excessive influence of social and digital media too can lead to the condition, says expert.

Addressing media persons on Friday, chairperson, research and publication committee of the Indian Association of Private Psychiatrists (IAPP), Dr Shahi Rai, said that people of all age group suffer with depression, however, the symptoms might differ.

As per studies, high influence of social and digital media can cause depression among teenagers, while ‘empty nest’ was usually responsible for middle-aged and elderly people suffering from the condition.

“By 2020, it is estimated that depression will be the second leading cause of disability,” said Dr Rai adding, “The reasons could be different - from disturbance in neuro-transmission to social causes.”

Speaking about identifying symptoms of depression in people, she said, “There are a few symptoms, such as, loss of interest for two-three weeks, feeling of disability, loss or increase in appetite, and increased sleep. Among young people, depres- sion will bring increased sleep while the elderly struggle with sleeplessness.”

“The stigma of going to a psychiatrist is such that 30% of the patients coming to us have spent a long time with physicians. In fact, only 2% of depression patients are severely affected. The others just need simple medication. However, as they delay treatment, they tend to live their lives with habits that develop due to untreated depression,” said Dr Rai.

The doctor said when people are depressed, they tend to feel powerless even if their bodies are fine. “The role of family is also important,” she said.