All stories→Health & wellbeing

Health & wellbeing

Living understandably with depression

Updated 24 Sep 2026717 views
Article cover: Living understandably with depression

Updated warning signs and support

The World Health Organization notes depression is treatable with talk therapy and/or medication. Sadness or loss of interest lasting more than two weeks is worth discussing with a professional. If you're having thoughts of self-harm, Thailand's Department of Mental Health helpline 1323 is free, 24 hours a day.

In today's era there are many people suffering from depression. But there are still many people who are in a state of sadness. and thought that he was suffering from depression and becomes a demand for attention from those around you instead To the point that people who suffer from depression are seen as stereotyping. Therefore, I want everyone to understand those who are truly depressed.

Depression is considered a silent health threat. Caused by abnormalities of neurotransmitters in the brain This can happen with every profession. All ages SPY THE DUCK As one of those who suffer from depression and see a doctor regularly

A man portrait in the dark with Silhouette
Portrait in the dark

, people who suffer from depression have changed quite a lot from before. Both in terms of emotions, feelings, behavior, including other physical symptoms. such as not being able to sleep, eating too little or too much, etc. In addition, from people who like to talk, like to talk, like to go out with friends, watch movies, listen to music, everything will change gradually, or for some people it may happen quickly.

Once changed, it can be said that it has completely changed from the front to the back of the hand. If you are aware of these symptoms, you must immediately consult a doctor to adjust your way of thinking and understand your own symptoms of depression. But if someone close to you has these symptoms, you don't want them to be complacent. Because he may be suffering from depression.

I want everyone who reads this article to live with an understanding of their own depression. Don't look at others or compare with others. Because each person has different symptoms. Including treatment that must be diagnosed by a doctor only.

silhouette of man
Shadow man

Symptoms observed in people with depression

“...Each patient will have different details and treatment methods. But there will be a common point where we can understand and help people around us have procedures to help patients have better morale..."

Man sitting on Sofa
Man sitting on Sofa

Dr. Prawet Tantipiwattanasakul Former qualified medical doctor The Department of Mental Health describes procedures for people with depression at various levels as follows:

Various levels of depression

Man in red shadow
Shadow man

If someone you know wants to commit suicide

In the case where the patient has suicidal thoughts,should not ignoreand think to yourself that People who talk about suicidal thoughts are seeking attention. Probably won't actually do it. But!

“...Mentioning suicidal thoughts Reflect what's in your heart. That made him hopeless about his life...”

was a warning sign to hurry and ask for help. A psychiatrist or someone working in the mental health field should be able to help assess the risks and jointly determine ways to help.

Don't ignore people who say they are going to commit suicide. Or post a discouraged status on social media. Because that may be your last chance to get his news.

a man cry
a man cry

Depression can be cured, but the first step must begin with an understanding of this disease first. This is not only for the patient himself but also for those around him. Especially family members closest to the patient. It will help a lot with proper understanding and attention. Depression can be severe to the point that in addition to affecting daily life, It can also be serious enough to cause the patient to decide to end their own life.

In general, people often think that they understand depression. Because I once felt 'sad' at certain times Or has there been something that made him feel sad and was able to deal with it? But actually it's not.

In the case of depressed patients, they may not have the strength and confidence that they will get better. No energy to exercise I don't want to do anything. The way we behave towards each other should be with an understanding of the nature of the disease. Don't just judge. The fact that he doesn't do it or can't do it means he's lazy, undisciplined, and unwilling to help himself. or asking for attention Thinking like this will only make us treat them in a judgmental way. Criticizing, forcing, and making symptoms worse

picture of two man on Silhouette
two man

How to treat depressed patientsis Encourage and invite to do activities together. Talk and listen, don't judge. Don't try to give an answer on what to do. In the case of family members If you don't know what to say Use touch and show love and care through actions. For example, arrange time to do activities you like together.

Examples of good words of encouragement

Words that should be avoided when giving encouragement

Don't forget that some words give you encouragement and good feelings. But many more words Words can stab the heart and bring tears to the eyes as well.

For patients with depression, words that should be avoided are words that criticize. criticize Motivating words of encouragement that emphasize positive thinking that you can do it. Because it will encourage him to feel even more of a failure.

Man leaning on counter
a man

Summary

Apart from taking medicine regularly, Living with understanding of your own depression Adjusting your daily routine by adding physical activity will help each person's symptoms improve. It is recommended that people with symptoms of depression consult their doctor or psychiatrist or public health officials near their homes across the country. Remember to take stock of the feelings of those around you. And don't forget that Depression is not a scary disease or a need for pity. Just want to understand that's all.

Illustrations from the internet.
Interviewed by Dr. Prawet Tantipiwattanasakul Former qualified doctor Department of Mental Health
Some information from the Village Doctor Foundation. and the Rajanagarindra Institute for Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Sources

Information updated 24 September 2026.

Articles worth reading