EFFECT OF DEPRESSION ON PRODUCTIVITY AMONG THE YOUTH

Abstract

Youth can only achieve meaningful social and psychological maturity if he or she is able to master the successful roles expected of him/her at different stages of life. Maturity and responsibility lead to productivity that will be of benefit to the youth and society. Depression is one of the major mood disorders; it is associated with a pervasive feeling of sadness/low mood, lack of interest and engagement in previously pleasurable activities and reduction in energy or feeling of weakness. The youth suffering from depressive reactions, on the other hand, is an unhappy individual with a pessimistic outlook on life, vulnerable to threats and even minor frustrations, which may bring along increased feelings of depression and low productivity. The belief that youths are the leaders of tomorrow is still strongly held in our societies. As future leaders, youth can only actualize the goal of maintaining national stability, integration, and productivity if they can successfully surmount the academic, social and psychological challenges confronting their present stage of life development. This paper discussed the causes of depression, the effects of depression on productivity and a way forward.