Developing a Social Enterprise for Behavioral Therapy of Depression using The 'Sati' Application

Abstract

Depression is a pervasive condition that impacts both the mind and body, significantly affecting daily activities such as eating, sleeping, and self-perception. Patients often struggle to coordinate their thoughts and emotions, impeding their ability to solve problems. Without treatment, symptoms can persist for months, commonly triggered by prolonged stress. Depression is associated with decreased levels or impaired function of happiness-inducing chemicals like endorphins and serotonin, while stress-related chemicals such as cortisone and noradrenaline increase. This imbalance can lead to various health issues, including high blood pressure, diabetes, elevated cholesterol, and weakened immune function, making the body more susceptible to illness. Emotional symptoms often include feelings of discouragement and profound sadness.

There are several contributing factors to the onset of depression, including chronic stress, significant loss, upbringing, troubled relationships, and genetic predispositions. Symptoms of depression encompass persistent sadness, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, suicidal thoughts, reduced interest in activities, significant weight changes, decreased concentration, indecisiveness, and physical restlessness or slowed movements.

Depression is categorized into two main types: 1. Unipolar Depression: Characterized by persistent depressive episodes. 2. Bipolar Depression: Involves alternating periods of depression and mania, with mood swings that are more extreme than typical emotional fluctuations. Treatment for depression typically involves a combination of antidepressant medications, psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy, and cognitive restructuring to alter negative thought patterns.

The Sati App, launched in 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, provides a free platform for individuals to connect with trained listeners, providing a safe space to share feelings. Supported by the Department of Mental Health and Microsoft’s AI for Good program, the app utilizes AI to engage users and detect suicidal tendencies, alerting a specialized suicide prevention team when necessary.

While the Sati App does not directly treat depression, it offers valuable support and helps reduce the workload for healthcare providers. Early recognition and consistent treatment of depression are crucial for effective management and prevention of recurrence.

Although there is no definitive way to prevent depression, if you notice early symptoms, it is important to try to control your emotions, manage stress, maintain flexibility, and boost your self-esteem. Talking to family or friends can be helpful, or you can use the Sati App, which is designed for individuals with depression. The app also offers free consultations for those who are not depressed but need support. As a non-profit organization and social enterprise, the Sati App provides access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and trained volunteers who listen empathetically, offering a safe space to share feelings and fostering a sense of being heard and understood. Most importantly, early diagnosis is crucial to prevent symptoms from worsening. Regular, long-term treatment is essential to manage depression and prevent its recurrence.