Understand and manage the blues

https://www.facebook.com/uiuhkcampus/photos/pcb.1458469904211003/1458469837544343/?type=3

Most of us see depression as a disease waiting to be cured. In his article “Living the blues” on the SCMP on June 10, however, Elbert Lee discusses depression as an issue that is closely related to personal growth and can turn a person into “a fuller, deeper, more resilient human being.”

I agree that depression moods, often referred to as the blues, are a psychological issue of great significance especially to young people as they inevitably come with adolescence. At this stage there may be some changes in their mood and behavior. Parents and teachers ought to be careful to distinguish between normal changes and symptoms of depression. Depression, if diagnosed, should not be allowed to exacerbate for it can take a severe form and can even be fatal as is evident from the sudden death of Elbert’s close friend.

On the other hand, if well managed, the blues can actually serve very beneficial purposes as suggested in the headline. Elbert states that depression can arouse an awareness of certain complications or shadows of life. Young people then understand that life is not all about pursuing wealth and happiness, and that they ought to ponder, experience and explore the darker side of life in order to learn from it. This can be of a better healing effect than what the usual antidepressants can achieve. More importantly, this can lead to their growth with better character strengths.

Elbert even points out that the blues can contribute to artistic and innovative production. We are not short of examples of very touching stories written by authors in their worst moods ever. Artists who are down in the dumps may also produce paintings that tug at our heartstrings.

In brief, depression is part of life. It is especially important to help young people understand their depression more in order to manage it well.