Depression: symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as clinical depression, low mood illness.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Depression is a medical illness — persistent low mood, loss of interest and exhaustion lasting weeks or more — not a character weakness or spiritual failing. It is common, affects people of every background, and it is very treatable with talking therapy, medication or both. Reaching out is the strongest first step.
Symptoms
Persistent sadness or emptiness most of the day
Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
Poor sleep or sleeping too much
Low energy and slowed thinking
Poor appetite or overeating
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
Difficulty concentrating
Thoughts of death or self-harm
Causes & risk factors
Brain chemistry and inherited vulnerability
Major life stress — loss, financial hardship, relationship breakdown
Chronic illness or pain
Postnatal hormonal changes
Alcohol or substance use worsening mood
Treatment & self-care
Effective treatment includes talking therapy with a mental-health professional, antidepressant medicines prescribed by a doctor, or both — improvement typically builds over weeks. Regular sleep, exercise, reduced alcohol and staying connected to trusted people all support recovery. A telehealth consult is a private, judgement-free way to start.
See a doctor urgently if
Any thought of harming yourself — seek help immediately
Low mood lasting more than two weeks
Unable to work, study or care for your family
Using alcohol or drugs to cope
Depression after childbirth
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Depression?
Early signs often include persistent sadness or emptiness most of the day, loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, poor sleep or sleeping too much. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Depression be treated?
Effective treatment includes talking therapy with a mental-health professional, antidepressant medicines prescribed by a doctor, or both — improvement typically builds over weeks. Regular sleep, exercise, reduced alcohol and staying connected to trusted people all support recovery. A telehealth consult is a private, judgement-free way to start.
When should I see a doctor about Depression?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: any thought of harming yourself — seek help immediately; low mood lasting more than two weeks; unable to work, study or care for your family; using alcohol or drugs to cope; depression after childbirth.