+92 312 7493940

COCAINE ADDICTION IN OVERSEAS PAKISTANI FAMILIES AND TREATMENT EXPERIENCE AT NEW HOPE REHAB CENTER ISLAMABAD

COCAINE ADDICTION IN OVERSEAS PAKISTANI FAMILIES AND TREATMENT EXPERIENCE AT NEW HOPE REHAB CENTER ISLAMABAD

What Is Cocaine Addiction?

People who are struggling with cocaine addiction will begin to use cocaine in a way that is compulsive (feeling an irresistible urge to use), even if they experience harmful consequences.3 While addiction is a chronic brain condition, it is treatable and recovery is possible.

Cocaine addiction and misuse can be caused by cocaine’s reinforcing high, which is primarily a result of how it works on the dopamine neurotransmitter system in the brain.1,4 Addiction to cocaine can be triggered in many people after only one use, since cocaine affects the brain’s reward pathway immediately.

Why Is Cocaine So Addictive?

Dopamine is associated with ‘euphoric’ emotions, the regulation of movement, and the processing of reward cues. While individuals using cocaine may feel these highs for a time, once the drug begins to leave the system, they may experience unpleasant reactions, including anxiety, confusion, irritability, and agitation.

These negative effects may lead people to regularly use cocaine in order to avoid uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, which can drive the development of tolerance. Tolerance occurs when more frequent and/or escalated use is needed to achieve the same level of positive effects (or high) and temporarily decrease the negative effects of cocaine withdrawal.

Signs and Symptoms of Cocaine Use:

Typical signs and symptoms of current cocaine use include:

  • Increased agitation.
  • Effusive enthusiasm.
  • Increased movement (i.e. hyperactivity).
  • Signs of involuntary movements (i.e. muscle twitches).

Changes in concentration and focus.

Adverse Effects of Cocaine Use:

There are several potentially dangerous side effects of cocaine use. One serious risk of cocaine abuse is heart damage.5,6 Both acutely and over time, cocaine use can result in several cardiovascular issues, such as ischemic heart disease, aberrant heart rhythms, hypertension, and cardiomyopathy. Intravenous cocaine use can result in infection and inflammation of the heart valves and the lining of the heart chambers (endocarditis).

Inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis).

Aortic rupture.

Severe declines in health and life quality due to chronic reductions in cardiac function.

Cocaine addiction is also associated with kidney damage. The prolonged use of cocaine is thought to be related to the inflammation of important microstructures within this organ.

Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms:

Symptoms of cocaine withdrawal can occur when an individual decreases or discontinues using cocaine. As the body becomes used to having cocaine in the system, physical dependence develops, causing the brain to desire cocaine in order to function.

As a person’s brain adapts to the dopamine surges related to their cocaine use, they aren’t as sensitive to them. This may lead the person to use more of the drug or use it more frequently in order to prevent uncomfortable cocaine withdrawal symptoms, which may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Increased appetite.
  • Unpleasant dreams.
  • Delayed thinking.

 

Addiction To Cocaine:

Cocaine is a highly addictive drug, but it may be hard to recognize an addiction to it. Craving Cocaine and ignoring the consequences that come with it are signs of an addiction.

The psychological addiction is often the hardest part to overcome, although there are undeniable physical symptoms of addiction as well. Someone who uses Cocaine frequently will develop a dependence on it, meaning they need to have it in order to feel normal. Once dependence has developed, a tolerance will develop and withdrawal symptoms will occur when stopping use.

Once someone becomes addicted to Cocaine, it can be very hard to stop. This is because Cocaine abnormally increases the level of dopamine in the brain, eventually reprogramming the brain reward system.

Cocaine And Other Drugs:

Many people who experiment with Cocaine usually do so in environments where other substances are being used. For this reason, many people with a Cocaine addiction may also have a dependence on other substances, such as alcohol or Marijuana. This is known as poly-drug use and is especially dangerous, as it increases the risk of fatal overdose.

Cocaine and alcohol are frequently used together, to the point where alcohol can be a trigger for recovering Cocaine users. For this reason, it is important to abstain from all drugs during recovery. Using Heroin and Cocaine together (known as a “speedball”) is arguably the most dangerous of all drug combinations that include Cocaine.

Cocaine Addiction Treatment Programs:

There are many addiction treatment options available to help people struggling with cocaine addiction. Treatment can take place in an inpatient or residential center that provides room and board and around-the-clock supervision and support. Outpatient treatment offers a similar range of therapeutic interventions to that of its counterpart but does not require onsite residence.

Behavioural Therapies:

Behavioural therapies are psychosocial treatments that address the reasons, motivations, and possible underlying psychological issues associated with a person’s substance misuse. Behavioural therapy techniques are particularly effective in helping patients affected by cocaine abuse and dependence.

An example of a behavioural treatment associated with effectively promoting abstinence from cocaine use is contingency management (CM). This treatment is based on incentives (e.g. prizes or cash) for abstinence, or other positive parameters, such as improved social interactions.

Another form of behavioural treatment—cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)—may be used. This type of treatment addresses the reasons behind substance abuse and helps to alter maladaptive ways of thinking and acting that may be contributing to the cocaine use issue.

Cocaine Detox:

Drug treatment begins with detox. This process eliminates the toxins cocaine leaves behind in the body. However, it also involves withdrawal, which causes dangerous side effects. Examples of these include insomnia, mood swings, and suicidal thoughts.

Therefore, enrolling in a medical detox program is the safest way to stop using cocaine. Doctors and nurses monitor vitals and provide medicines to ease pain and discomfort. Unlike alcohol and opiates, however, there are no medications that reduce cocaine cravings. The process takes five to 10 weeks, depending on cocaine use and overall health.

Cocaine Rehab:

Cocaine users must also continue their treatment with rehab. This provides therapy to address the behavioural, emotional, and mental side effects of cocaine addiction. Rehab has the highest success rate for treating drug addiction. A program can last 30 to 90 days or longer. The length of stay depends on the severity of the addiction.

Experience of cocaine in new hope rehab centre Islamabad:

Rehabilitation is a unique journey. You arrive with individual needs, goals and expectations and progress at your own speed, learning new skills and strategies to overcome personal challenges.  Team is there to guide you and provide care and treatment to help you rebuild your life.

New Hope Rehab Centre in Islamabad is an exclusive, alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility which offers special care and attention to their clients. New Hope Rehab is located in Islamabad, and it works on the principals of dual diagnosis treatment. Here we believe in treating addiction with a holistic approach by incorporating Psychological, Medical and Wellbeing Treatments. We focus on different aspects of Spirit, Mind and Body which makes the road to recovery easy and decrease the chances of relapse.

NEW HOPE REHAB CENTER ISLAMABAD is playing its best role to create awareness about the risks and dangers addiction. New hope is providing best treatment for the drug addiction and all mental illness.

A psychiatrist and physician plan a medication and a skilful psychologist provide psychotherapy.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

 

LAIBA SHAHAB

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST NEW HOPE REHAB AND CARING CENTER ISLAMABAD

Author has experience of treating mental disorder and addiction counselling in NEW HOPE REHAB AND CARING CENTER ISLAMABAD

She can be reached at:

laibashahabuddin@gmail.com

ADDRESS:

HOUSE 275, STREET 2, BLOCK A, NEAR SAVE MART MAIN PWD ROAD NATIONAL POLICE FOUNDATION ISLAMABA

CONTACT: 03127493940, 03068703891, 03350172051

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Latest Post

Newsletter

Signup our newsletter to get free update, news or insight. 

Related Article

Drug Addiction

Breaking Down Drug Addiction and Navigating the Path to Recovery

Breaking Down Drug Addiction and Navigating the Path to Recovery Drug addiction is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Whether you are a healthcare professional seeking more information, a recovering addict looking for guidance, or a family member trying to support a loved one, understanding the intricacies of drug addiction is crucial. This comprehensive guide aims to provide valuable insights into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for drug addiction. What is Drug Addiction? Drug addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is a chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful consequences. It affects the brain’s reward system, leading to an intense craving for the substance and an inability to control its use. Understanding this definition is the first step in grasping the severity and complexity of the condition. Drug addiction can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic status. It is not a result of moral failure or lack of willpower but rather a medical condition that requires professional treatment and support. Recognizing this can help reduce stigma and encourage those affected to seek help. The severity of drug addiction varies from person to person. Factors such as the type of drug used, the duration of use, and individual genetic predisposition all play a role in determining the impact of addiction on a person’s life. Causes of Drug Addiction Genetic Factors Genetics play a significant role in the development of drug addiction. Studies have shown that individuals with a family history of addiction are more likely to develop substance use disorders themselves. This genetic predisposition can influence how a person’s brain responds to drugs, making them more susceptible to addiction. Environmental Factors The environment in which a person grows up can also contribute to the risk of drug addiction. Factors such as exposure to drugs at an early age, peer pressure, and the presence of drugs in the household can all increase the likelihood of developing an addiction. Additionally, experiencing trauma or abuse can lead to substance use as a coping mechanism. Psychological Factors Mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, can increase the risk of drug addiction. Individuals may use drugs to self-medicate and alleviate their symptoms. However, this often leads to a cycle of dependency and worsens the underlying mental health condition. Symptoms of Drug Addiction Physical Symptoms Drug addiction can cause a range of physical symptoms, including changes in appetite and sleep patterns, weight loss or gain, and deterioration of physical appearance. Additionally, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop using the drug, such as shaking, sweating, and nausea. Behavioral Symptoms Behavioral changes are often the most noticeable signs of drug addiction. These can include neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home; engaging in risky behaviors; and isolating oneself from friends and family. Addicts may also exhibit secretive behavior and frequent mood swings. Psychological Symptoms Psychological symptoms of drug addiction include intense cravings for the substance, irritability, and anxiety. Individuals may also experience feelings of guilt, shame, and hopelessness. These emotional struggles can make it challenging to seek help and maintain recovery. How Drug Addiction Affects the Brain The Reward System Drugs affect the brain’s reward system by flooding it with dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This creates a powerful association between drug use and positive feelings, reinforcing the desire to continue using the substance. Changes in Brain Structure Prolonged drug use can lead to significant changes in brain structure and function. These changes can impair cognitive functions such as decision-making, impulse control, and memory. The brain’s ability to experience pleasure from natural rewards, such as food and social interactions, can also be diminished. Long-term Effects The long-term effects of drug addiction on the brain can be profound and lasting. Even after achieving sobriety, individuals may continue to experience cravings and struggle with mental health issues. This underscores the importance of ongoing support and treatment. Treatment Options for Drug Addiction Detoxification Detoxification is often the first step in treating drug addiction. It involves removing the substance from the body and managing withdrawal symptoms. Medical supervision during detox is crucial to ensure the process is safe and as comfortable as possible. Behavioral Therapies Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management, are effective in treating drug addiction. These therapies help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, develop coping strategies, and build a support network. Medication-Assisted Treatment Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines medication with behavioral therapies to treat drug addiction. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse. Support Systems for Recovering Addicts Family Support Family support is crucial for individuals recovering from drug addiction. Families can provide emotional encouragement, help monitor progress, and participate in therapy sessions. Educating family members about addiction can also reduce stigma and improve communication. Support Groups Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), offer a sense of community and shared experience. These groups provide a safe space for individuals to share their struggles, celebrate successes, and receive guidance from others who have faced similar challenges. Professional Counseling Professional counseling can be an invaluable resource for recovering addicts. Counselors can help individuals address underlying issues, develop coping skills, and create a personalized recovery plan. Regular counseling sessions can also provide ongoing support and accountability. The Role of Healthcare Professionals in Treating Addiction Early Intervention Healthcare professionals play a critical role in the early intervention of drug addiction. By recognizing the signs and symptoms of addiction, they can provide timely referrals to treatment programs and support services. Comprehensive Care Treating drug addiction requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of the disease. Healthcare professionals can coordinate care across multiple disciplines, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary medical, therapeutic, and social support. Education and Advocacy Healthcare professionals can also advocate for policies that support addiction treatment and prevention. By educating patients, families, and communities about the realities of

Uncover-the-Power-of-Blogging-for-Addiction-Treatment-Centers-in-Pakistan.
Addiction Treatment Center

Uncover the Power of Blogging for Addiction Treatment Centers in Pakistan

Uncover the Power of Blogging for Addiction Treatment Centers in Pakistan Introduction Addiction treatment centers play a vital role in Pakistan, offering a lifeline to those grappling with substance abuse and mental health challenges. But how can these centers extend their reach and impact more lives? The answer lies in blogging. This blog post will explore why blogging is crucial for addiction treatment centers, providing valuable insights and practical tips for healthcare professionals, addiction recovery seekers, and anyone passionate about mental health rehabilitation. Why Blogging is Crucial for Addiction Treatment Centers The Power of Content Marketing Blogging is a powerful content marketing tool that helps addiction treatment centers connect with their audience, share valuable information, and build trust. Content marketing allows centers to address common questions and concerns, providing a reliable source of information for those seeking help. Case Studies and Success Stories Real-life case studies and success stories are compelling evidence of the effectiveness of blogging. These narratives humanize the brand and inspire hope among readers. For example, XYZ Rehab Center showcased the transformation of a young professional who overcame alcohol addiction, highlighting the center’s individualized care plan and ongoing support. Highlighting SEO Benefits and Online Visibility Blogging significantly improves a center’s online visibility through search engine optimization (SEO). By incorporating relevant keywords like “addiction treatment,” “rehabilitation,” and “mental health,” centers can attract more visitors to their websites. Increased web traffic translates to higher chances of reaching those in need of help. Understanding the Target Audience Addiction Recovery Seekers Individuals seeking recovery are often looking for information, support, and reassurance. Blogging helps centers provide answers to common questions, share success stories, and offer practical advice, making it easier for recovery seekers to take the first step towards treatment. Healthcare Professionals Healthcare professionals benefit from up-to-date information on the latest treatment methods, research, and best practices. Blogs serve as an educational resource, fostering a collaborative environment where professionals can share insights and improve patient care. Community Engagement Blogging broadens awareness within the community, helping to reduce stigma and encourage support for addiction treatment initiatives. By engaging with the community, centers can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for those affected by addiction. Leveraging Case Studies and Success Stories Transformation of a Young Professional at New Hope Rehab & Caring Center Islamabad A 25-year-old marketing executive sought treatment at New Hope Rehab & Caring Center Islamabad for alcohol addiction. The center provided an individualized care plan that addressed both the addiction and underlying mental health issues. The executive successfully completed the program and continues to thrive in both professional and personal life. From the Streets to Sobriety with New Hope Rehab & Caring Center Islamabad New Hope Rehab & Caring Center helped a 30-year-old overcome heroin addiction. The individual’s journey from living on the streets to finding stability and hope through the center’s comprehensive program is a testament to the power of effective treatment and community support. Dual Diagnosis Treatment at New Hope Rehab & Caring Center Islamabad New Hope Rehab successfully treated a 40-year-old with a history of depression and alcohol dependency. The center’s tailored approach addressed both conditions simultaneously, leading to significant recovery milestones and improved mental health. Content Strategies Tailored for Addiction Treatment Centers Best Practices for Creating Engaging, Informative Content Creating engaging content requires understanding the audience’s needs and addressing them effectively. Use clear, concise language, and focus on providing actionable advice. Incorporate multimedia elements like videos, infographics, and personal testimonials to enhance engagement. Utilizing Multimedia Videos, infographics, and personal testimonials are powerful tools for conveying information and fostering emotional connections. These elements make the content more relatable and memorable, increasing the likelihood of readers sharing it with others. Scheduling and Consistency Maintaining a consistent posting schedule is crucial for building and retaining readership. Develop a content calendar that outlines topics, posting dates, and promotional strategies. Regular updates keep the audience engaged and coming back for more. Addressing Sensitive Topics with Empathy and Understanding Navigating Stigma Addressing the stigma associated with addiction requires empathy and understanding. Use compassionate language and focus on the positive aspects of recovery. Highlighting success stories and providing resources for support can help change perceptions and encourage more people to seek help. Providing Information on Available Resources Blogs can serve as a directory of available resources, including treatment options, support groups, and confidential help services. Providing comprehensive information empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their recovery journey. Measuring Success and Adjusting Strategies Tracking Engagement Use tools like Google Analytics to track engagement metrics, including page views, time spent on the page, and bounce rates. Understanding these metrics helps identify which content resonates most with the audience and informs future content strategies. Utilizing Analytics Analyze data to refine content strategies continually. Look for patterns in engagement and adjust topics, posting schedules, and promotional efforts accordingly. Regular analysis ensures content remains relevant and impactful. Conclusion Blogging is a powerful tool for addiction treatment centers in Pakistan, offering numerous benefits, from increased online visibility to enhanced community engagement. By providing valuable information, sharing success stories, and addressing sensitive topics with empathy, centers can build trust and inspire hope among those seeking recovery. Encouraging engagement through consistent, high-quality content not only supports the mission of addiction treatment centers but also fosters a more informed and compassionate community. For those interested in learning more, consider reaching out to local centers or exploring additional resources to continue the conversation about addiction recovery and mental health. Remember, every story shared and every blog post published brings us one step closer to a world where everyone has access to the support they need.  

Addiction Treatment Center

Personality Disorders

Personality Disorders Personality disorders are a group of a 10 mental health conditions that involve long-la sting, disruptive patterns of thinking, behaviour, mood and relating to others. People with personality disorders often don’t realize their thoughts and behaviours are problematic. Personality disorders may cause distorted perceptions of reality, abnormal behaviours and distress across various aspects of life, including work, relationships and social functioning. Additionally, people with a personality disorder may not recognize their troubling behaviours or the negative effect they have on others. What are the types of personality disorders? The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which is the standard refere nce publication for recognized mental illnesses, organizes the 10 types of personality disorders into three main clusters (categories). Each cluster has different symptoms in common. Cluster A personality disorders: Cluster A personality disorders involve unusual and eccentric thinking or behaviours. These include: Paranoid personality disorder: The main feature of this condition is paranoia, which is a relentless mistrust and suspicion of others without adequate reason for suspicion. People with paranoid personality disorder often believe others are trying to demean, harm or threaten them. Schizoid personality disorder: This condition is marked by a consistent pattern of detachment from and general disinterest in interpersonal relationships. People with schizoid personality disorder have a limited range of emotions when interacting with others. Schizotypal personality disorder: People with this condition display a consistent pattern of intense discomfort with and limited need for close relationships. Relationships may be hindered by their distorted views of reality, superstitions and unusual behaviours. Cluster B personality disorders: Cluster B personality disorders involve dramatic and erratic behaviours. People with these types of conditions display intense, unstable emotions and impulsive behaviours. Cluster B personality disorders include: Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD): People with ASPD show a lack of respect toward others and don’t follow socially accepted norms or rules. People with ASPD may break the law or cause physical or emotional harm to others around them. They may refuse to take responsibility for their behaviours and/or display disregard for the negative consequences of their actions. Borderline personality disorder (BPD): This condition is marked by difficulty with emotional regulation, resulting in low self-esteem, mood swings, impulsive behaviours and subsequent relationship difficulties. Histrionic personality disorder: This condition is marked by intense, unstable emotions and a distorted self-image. For people with histrionic personality disorder, their self-esteem depends on the approval of others and doesn’t come from a true feeling of self-worth. They have an overwhelming desire to be noticed by others, and may display dramatic and/or inappropriate behaviours to get attention. Narcissistic personality disorder: This condition involves a consistent pattern of perceived superiority and grandiosity, an excessive need for praise and admiration and a lack of empathy for others. These thoughts and behaviours often stem from low self-esteem and a lack of self-confidence. Cluster C personality disorders: Cluster C personality disorders involve severe anxiety and fear. They include: Avoidant personality disorder: People with this condition have chronic feelings of inadequacy and are highly sensitive to being negatively judged by others. Though they would like to interact with others, they tend to avoid social interaction due to the intense fear of being rejected. Dependent personality disorder: This condition is marked by a constant and excessive need to be cared for by someone else. It also involves submissiveness, a need for constant reassurance and the inability to make decisions. People with dependent personality disorder often become very close to another person and spend great effort trying to please that person. They tend to display passive and clinging behaviour and have a fear of separation. Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD): This condition is marked by a consistent and extreme need for orderliness, perfectionism and control (with no room for flexibility) that ultimately slows or interferes with completing a task. It can also interfere with relationships. This is a separate condition from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which is classified as an anxiety disorder. While people with OCD usually are aware that OCD is causing their behaviour and accept they need to change, people with OCPD usually have little, if any, self-awareness of their behaviours. Who do personality disorders affect? Most personality disorders begin in the teen years when your personality further develops and matures. As a result, almost all people diagnosed with personality disorders are above the age of 18. One exception to this is antisocial personality disorder — approximately 80% of people with this disorder will have started to show symptoms by the age of 11. Antisocial personality disorders are more likely to affect people assigned male at birth. Borderline, histrionic and dependent personality disorders are more likely to affect people assigned female at birth. How common are personality disorders? Approximately 9% of adults in the U.S. have some type of personality disorder, and about 6% of the global population has a personality disorder. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) and antisocial personality disorder are the most frequently diagnosed personality disorders. What causes personality disorders? Personality disorders are among the least understood mental health conditions. Scientists are still trying to figure out the cause of them. So far, they believe the following factors may contribute to the development of personality disorders: Genetics: Scientists have identified a malfunctioning gene that may be a factor in obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. Researchers are also exploring genetic links to aggression, anxiety and fear, which are traits that can play a role in personality disorders. Brain changes: Researchers have identified subtle brain differences in people with certain personality disorders. For example, findings in studies on paranoid personality disorder point to altered amygdala functioning. The amygdala is the part of your brain that’s involved with processing fearful and threatening stimuli. In a study on schizotypal personality disorder, researchers found a volumetric decrease in the frontal lobe of their brain. Childhood trauma: One study revealed a link between childhood traumas and the development of personality disorders. People with borderline personality disorder, for example, had especially high rates of childhood sexual trauma. People with borderline and antisocial

Addiction Treatment Center

What is depression?

What is depression? Depression is one of the most common types of mental health conditions and often develops alongside anxiety. Depression can be mild and short-lived or severe and long-lasting. Some people are affected by depression only once, while others may experience it multiple times. Depression can lead to suicide, but this is preventable when appropriate support is provided. It’s important to know that much can be done to help young people who are thinking about suicide. What causes depression? Depression can happen as a reaction to something like abuse, violence in school, the death of someone close or family problems like domestic violence or family breakdown. Someone might get depressed after being stressed for a long time. It can also run in the family. Sometimes we may not know why it happens. Depression in children and adolescents: Depression can show up in children and adolescents as prolonged periods of unhappiness or irritability. It is quite common among older children and teenagers, but often goes unrecognized. Some children might say they feel “unhappy” or “sad”. Others might say they want to hurt or even kill themselves. Children and adolescents who experience depression are at greater risk of self-harm, so such responses should always be taken seriously. Signs and symptoms of depression:  Physical: Tiredness or low energy, even when rested Restlessness or difficulty concentrating Difficulty in carrying out daily activities Changes in appetite or sleep patterns Aches or pains that have no obvious cause Emotional and mental: Persistent sadness, anxiousness or irritability Loss of interest in friends and activities that they normally enjoy Withdrawal from others and loneliness Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness or guilt Taking risks they wouldn’t normally take Self-harming or suicidal thoughts Ways to help your Patients: Find out what’s happening: Ask them how they’re feeling and listen openly without judgment or advice. Ask people you trust who know your child, like a favourite teacher or close friend, to find out if they’ve noticed anything that might be worrying them or changes in their reactions to things. Pay particular attention to their well-being during important life changes like starting a new school or puberty. Spend time with them: Try to build an environment of warmth, reassurance and support by talking or doing age-appropriate activities together that they will enjoy. Take an interest in their life, like how their day was at school or what they love most about their friends. Encourage positive habits: Encourage your child to do the things they usually enjoy, stick to regular eating and sleeping habits and stay active. Physical activity is an important way to boost their mood. Music can have a strong influence on our moods, so try listening to songs together that make them feel positive about life. Let them express themselves: Let them talk to you. Listen carefully to what they say about how they feel. Never press your child to share, instead you can encourage other forms of creative expression like painting, crafts or journaling their thoughts and experiences. Mood-journaling can help some children let their feelings out by observing the things that make them upset or low. They can also be a great reminder of the positive aspects of their life and the things they are proud of. Protect them from stressful surroundings: Try to keep your child away from situations where they may experience excessive stress, maltreatment or violence. And remember to model healthy behaviour and reactions to the stresses in your own life, including setting boundaries and maintaining positive self-care habits. Symptoms and patterns: During a depressive episode, a person experiences a depressed mood (feeling sad, irritable, empty). They may feel a loss of pleasure or interest in activities. A depressive episode is different from regular mood fluctuations. They last most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Poor concentration Feelings of excessive guilt or low self-worth Hopelessness about the future Thoughts about dying or suicide Changes in appetite or weight Feeling very tired or low in energy. There are different patterns of depressive episodes including: Single episode depressive disorder, meaning the person’s first and only episode; Recurrent depressive disorder, meaning the person has a history of at least two depressive episodes; and Bipolar disorder, meaning that depressive episodes alternate with periods of manic symptoms, which include euphoria or irritability, increased activity or energy, and other symptoms such as increased talkativeness, racing thoughts, increased self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, distractibility, and impulsive reckless behaviour. Contributing factors and prevention: Depression results from a complex interaction of social, psychological, and biological factors. People who have gone through adverse life events (unemployment, bereavement, traumatic events) are more likely to develop depression. Depression can, in turn, lead to more stress and dysfunction and worsen the affected person’s life situation and the depression itself. Depression is closely related to and affected by physical health. Many of the factors that influence depression (such as physical inactivity or harmful use of alcohol) are also known risk factors for diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and respiratory diseases. In turn, people with these diseases may also find themselves experiencing depression due to the difficulties associated with managing their condition. Diagnosis and treatment: There are effective treatments for depression. These include psychological treatment and medications. Seek care if you have symptoms of depression. Psychological treatments can teach new ways of thinking, coping or relating to others. They may include talk therapy with professionals and supervised lay therapists. Talk therapy can happen in person or online. Psychological treatments may be accessed through self-help manuals, websites and apps. Effective psychological treatments for depression include:   Cognitive behavioural therapy Behavioural activation Interpersonal psychotherapy Problem-solving therapy. Antidepressants should not be used for treating depression in children and are not the first line of treatment in adolescents, among whom they should be used with extra caution. PREVALANCE:  Women are more likely to have depression than men. An estimated 3.8% of the population experience depression, including 5% of adults (4% among men and 6% among women), and