What can we learn from the story “Sunita, Age 45”?
From the book – Chapter 9: Depression and Low Mood
Sunita, Age 45
For months, forty-five-year-old Sunita felt as though she were walking through heavy mud. She was not just sad; she felt completely empty and constantly exhausted. She stopped sleeping through the night. The things that used to bring her joy—like cooking her favourite recipes or chatting at family gatherings—suddenly felt like impossible chores.
The heaviest part of her struggle was the quiet, cruel voice in her head constantly whispering, "I am a burden to everyone." Because mothers and wives are so often taught that they must be the strong, selfless centre of the household, Sunita told no one. She swallowed her tears, terrified that her family would think she was weak or lazy.
Read the full chapter – Chapter 9: Depression and Low Mood
Stories from real life
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More on this topic: Depression and low mood – signs, causes and the way back
More questions
- What is the difference between normal sadness and depression?
- What are the signs of depression?
- What are the types of depression?
- What causes depression?
- Depression across age groups – what to know about depression
- Understanding depression and suicide risk
- Understanding diagnosis and assessment – depression
- How is depression treated?
- Psychotherapy in the treatment of depression
- Medicines in the treatment of depression
- Is it sadness or depression? The signs to look for
- What can I do for myself when I feel low?