Depression
Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in things and activities you once enjoyed. It can also cause difficulty with thinking, memory, eating and sleeping. It’s normal to feel sad about or grieve over difficult life situations, such as losing your job or a divorce. But depression is different in that it persists practically every day for at least two weeks and involves other symptoms than sadness alone.
There are several types of depressive disorders. Clinical depression, or major depressive disorder, is often just called “depression.” It’s the most severe type of depression.
Without treatment, depression can get worse and last longer. In severe cases, it can lead to self-harm or death by suicide. The good news is that treatments can be very effective in improving symptoms.
Causes:
Researchers don’t know the exact cause of depression. They think that several factors contribute to its development, including:
- Brain chemistry: An imbalance of neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine, contributes to the development of depression.
- Genetics: If you have a first-degree relative (biological parent or sibling) with depression, you’re about three times as likely to develop the condition as the general population. However, you can have depression without a family history of it.
- Stressful life events: Difficult experiences, such as the death of a loved one, trauma, divorce, isolation and lack of support, can trigger depression.
- Medical conditions: Chronic pain and chronic conditions like diabetes can lead to depression.
- Medication: Some medications can cause depression as a side effect. Substance use, including alcohol, can also cause depression or make it worse.
Symptoms:
- Loss of vision in one or both eyes due to inflammation of the optic nerve
- Weakness that may be severe
- Difficulty coordinating intended (voluntary) movement such as walking
- Rapid onset of fever
- Some degree of impairment of consciousness, perhaps as severe as coma
Treatment:
Depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. Approximately 80% to 90% of people with depression who seek treatment eventually respond well to treatment.
Black Panther:
Symbolically the Black Panther represents elusiveness, power, and the master of disguise. When you are in the darkness with depression the panther will help you reclaim your power. It knows the darkness and will help you navigate through the dark times
1. Species Identification: The term “black panther” is commonly used to refer to big cats with a black coat, particularly leopards (Panthera pardus) and jaguars (Panthera onca). Despite their name, black panthers are not a distinct species but rather a color variation of these large feline species.
2. Melanistic Trait: The black coloration in panthers is due to a genetic condition called melanism. Melanism is the opposite of albinism and results in an increased production of dark pigments (melanin), giving the fur a dark or black appearance.
3. Geographic Distribution: Black panthers are found in various regions around the world, including parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Leopards with melanistic traits are more commonly referred to as black panthers in Africa, while in the Americas, it is typically associated with melanistic jaguars.
4. Camouflage Advantages: While a black coat might seem conspicuous, it can provide an advantage in certain environments. In dense, shaded forests, the black coloration helps panthers blend in with their surroundings, making them stealthier hunters.
5. Physical Characteristics: Black panthers have the same physical features as their non-melanistic counterparts. They are powerful, agile, and have a similar body structure, with a robust build, sharp claws, and keen senses.
6. Spotted Patterns: Despite their overall black appearance, black panthers often retain the spotted patterns characteristic of their species. These spots can be more visible under certain lighting conditions and are especially noticeable on the underbelly.
7. Conservation Status: Both leopards and jaguars, including their melanistic variants, face various threats, including habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts with humans. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensuring the survival of these big cat populations.
8. Behavior and Habitat: Black panthers exhibit similar behaviors and inhabit similar environments as their non-melanistic counterparts. They are versatile hunters and can adapt to various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and swamps.
9. Mythology and Cultural Significance: Black panthers are often featured in mythology and folklore. In some cultures, they are associated with mystery, strength, and stealth. The symbolism of black panthers varies across different societies.
10. Reproduction and Lifespan: Black panthers, like other big cats, have a similar reproductive cycle and lifespan. They generally reach sexual maturity between 2 to 3 years of age and can live up to 12-15 years in the wild, although this can vary based on factors such as habitat and prey availability.