In this Monday’s edition (17) of the Medical Correspondent, of Novo Dia, neurosurgeon Fernando Gomes addressed depression on the date of the so-called “Blue Monday”, considered the saddest day of the year. year.
The date was “established” in 2005 through a mathematical calculation made by British psychologist Cliff Arnall, which considered factors such as the cold climate of the Northern Hemisphere and the holidays of most workers. As it is based on the seasons of the year, Blue Monday – which always falls on the third Monday in January – would only be valid in the countries of the North of the planet. The survey, however, has no scientific evidence.
For Fernando Gomes, raising awareness of the difficulties caused by depression is extremely important. The doctor pointed out that the disorder, which affects more than 260 million people worldwide, is the result of a neurogenetic leak, but that it is also related to the patient’s day-to-day experiences, altering the functioning of the brain.
“Most people have no idea what it’s like to be diagnosed with depression. You lose the will to live, you lose the fun of things. It doesn’t mean that depression is simply sadness, but that vital energy goes away”, explained Gomes.
The neurosurgeon cited changes in sleep, eating and daily performance habits as common symptoms presented by people who have the condition. According to Gomes, the explanation lies in the change in the functioning of certain areas of the brain, such as the prefrontal cortex, a region of the “mental screen” of consciousness, the hippocampus, an area responsible for memory, and the cerebellar amygdala – linked to the irritability process. and aggression.
Fernando Gomes agreed with the analysis that, for most patients, depression causes a feeling of apathy, generating a “blackout” inside their own heads.
“It is not uncommon for us to hear people in the office imagining that they arrive on the final day and simply enter the coffin and have a place to rest. It is very difficult for us to understand this, but we know that the brain is capable of giving meaning to a day.”
The doctor recalled that the Southern Hemisphere of the planet would not be so affected by Blue Monday due to climate issues and highlighted the White January campaign, which discusses prevention and mental health care.
“It is important that we deal with emotions properly and diagnose mental disorders. They have an accurate diagnosis, treatment and the possibility of an absolutely normal life”, he concluded.
Reference: CNN Brasil
