Chapter 1 : Can love cause depression?

Depression, a part of mental disorder that could negatively affect emotions, thoughts and actions

I was ready to meet him, the person I was supposed to meet to talk more about depression. It was hard to get him for this interview and talk about his experiences that caused him depression.

Not long after, a young teen named Nero arrived with a smile, making me more anxious as I do not want to say the wrong things in front of him. The reasons for me doing so was not only due to him being my interviewee, but also to him being one of my best friends.

“How are things going on these days?” I asked.

“Things are getting well. I am not depressed anymore,” he said, with a serious look.

Depression attacks without any concern of age limits.

Mental health issues have never been more common in recent societies.

According to the statistics of American Psychology Association, one of 15 adults will be affected by depression. Additionally, one of every six people will experience depression at some time of their lives.

In Malaysia, according to the statistics of a Malaysia Health Ministry study, more than 18,000 Malaysians are suffering from depression.

Depression can strike at different times, but it will most likely strike late teenagers, between the ages of 17 to 25.

“When I was depressed, I find myself being unable to focus at work and I find myself trying to escape from these uncomfortable feelings,” he continued.

Depression comes first in mild symptoms like disinterest in certain hobbies and lack of passion and energy in managing their life performance.

“What is the worst encounter you face that caused you to be depressed?” I remembered the moment when I asked this, he gazed at me with shock.

The answer he gave me was also a shocking one.