Depression is probably one of the most misunderstood words in the English language.  Although it affects one in four women and one in ten men all over the world, it has been a mystery for lay people as well as professionals for centuries.  It means different things to different people.

When lay people talk about Depression they refer to a sense of sadness that most people feel for short periods of time when they are frustrated or disappointed in life.  Such sadness lasts for only a few hours or days and does not need professional intervention.

When mental health professionals talk about Depression, they mean a human condition that is not only far more serious than ordinary sadness but also lasts for months and sometimes years, significantly affects quality of life and needs professional help for recovery.   Some people feel so desperate that they want to commit suicide and are admitted to hospital for intensive observation and treatment.

In the documentary, three patients share how Depression affected their personal, family, social and professional lives and how psychiatric help improved their quality of life.  One went through a severe grief reaction, one suffered from Manic-Depressive illness, and one sought help for Dysthymia, a form of Depression that she had for many years.

Dr. K. Sohail, psychiatrist, shares his insights into Depression and how various forms of treatment help patients and their families to regain a happy and healthy lifestyle.

This documentary is produced to help patients, their families, therapists and the public at large to develop a better understanding and an optimistic attitude towards Depression.  It will reassure them that there is light at the end of the dark tunnel.