Contributors
Depression will become the leading cause of disability worldwide by 2020. And in Singapore, one in 15 people will have depression at least once in their lifetime. What exactly is depression? People do feel sad occasionally, but such feelings are temporary. This is unlike clinical depression, which is a prolonged feeling of intense sadness, accompanied by a sense of hopelessness, social withdrawal and at times, may drive one to self-harm and suicide.
Depression has the ability to destroy a person’s physical and mental health if left untreated. In a four-part series called “Facing Depression”, which premieres on March 2 at 8pm, Channel NewsAsia gains access to patients undergoing treatment and those who have recovered. They share their struggles, hopes and fears as they battle this invisible morbidity
EPISODE 1: A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
Why is depression twice as common in women than in men? And what does it mean when you feel sad for a prolonged period of time? Discover the triggers that drive a high-achiever, a new mother and a lady with a disability into depression, and their stories of treatment and recovery.
EPISODE 2: A STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE
As we follow Xun An, Jodee and Charmaine on their recovery, we learn of the different aspects of youth depression – family issues led to Xun An’s diagnosis at Primary 4, peer and academic pressures drove Jodee to self-harm, and adjustment issues turned Charmaine into a completely different person.
EPISODE 3: A WORKING ADULT’S PERSPECTIVE
Singaporeans work hard with high aspirations. Work stress is inevitable and at times, insurmountable. Hear the struggles of a business entrepreneur, a father and a millennial as they combat depression and its stigma. Does having depression means one is less capable?
EPISODE 4: AN ELDERLY’S PERSPECTIVE
Depression among elderlies is on the rise in Singapore. Meet an octogenarian who suffers from dementia-induced mood swings, and a 70-year-old man who couldn’t get over the death of his spouse. How can one find meaning and stay positive in their silver years?
** You can also watch it online at www.channelnewsasia.com/facing-depression.
