Depression may not just be a result of a traumatic incident, it can also be caused when you feel constantly burdened under the daily pressures of life. Depression cases and suicides are rising at such an alarming rate that it is has become a matter of global health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide. More than 300 million people are living with depression with an increase of more than 18 percent between 2005 and 2015. The depression rate in India in 2016-17 was 36 percent. As per a new study, working for nine plus hours a day could put women at higher risk of depression, but not men. Women, who worked extra-long hours (more than 55 hours a week) had 7.3 percent more depressive symptoms than women working a standard 35-40 hours a week.
"This is an observational study. Although we cannot establish the exact causes, we do know many women face the additional burden of doing a larger share of domestic labour than men, leading to extensive total work hours, added time pressures and overwhelming responsibilities," said lead researcher Gill Weston, postdoctoral student at the University College London. "Additionally, women who work most weekends tend to be concentrated in low-paid service sector jobs, which have been linked to higher levels of depression," Weston said.
For the study, published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, the team included 11,215 working men and 12,188 working women. The study also showed working on weekends was linked to a higher risk of depression among both men (3.4 percent) and women (4.6 percent).
Two-thirds of men worked on weekends compared with half of women. Those who worked all or most weekends were more likely to be in low-skilled jobs and were less satisfied with their job and earnings than those who only worked on weekdays or some weekends. "We hope our findings will encourage employers and policy-makers to think about how to reduce the burdens and increase support for women who work long or irregular hours -- without restricting their ability to work when they wish to," Weston said.
"More sympathetic working practices could bring benefits both for workers and for employers of both sexes," she suggested.
Herbal Remedies For Depression:
1. Ashwangandha
Ashwangnadha has antidepressant, anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties that keep away stress and anxiety that usually happens due to emotional as well as by physical fatigue. Moreover, regular consumption of Ashwangandha keeps your mood swings in control and increases your focus, alertness and concentration.
2. Brahmi
Brahmi is an ancient herb that is commonly used in various Ayurvedic medicines. It is believed that consuming this herb regularly may cure stress and anxiety. Brahmi prepares our mind and body to face new challenges or stressful situations. Eating brahmi helps increase serotonin levels in our brain, keeping our mind calm and stress-free.
3. Jatamansi (Spikenard)
Jatamansi is an age-old herb that is known to treat sleep disorders like insomnia. Its is anti-depressant, anti-stress and anti-fatigue properties help people suffering from depression. According to Ayurveda, the roots of jatamansi are used to prepare various traditional medicines to treat sleep and stress disorders, including mood swings and depression.
4. Pudina
From treating tummy woes to giving us interesting refreshing drinks, pudina is one of the most famous herbs that is known for its health benefiting properties. The presence of menthol in pudina helps calm the stressed nerves, leaving a cooling effect. Pudina or peppermint is brimming with vitamin A and C, and various essential minerals that are known to promote weight loss.
It is important for you to consult a doctor if you are suffering from depression. There is an urgent need to have more health care services when it comes to treating and diagnosing depression.