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Depression In The Society! Causes, Symtoms, Treatment

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depression

Depression!!! The first thing that comes to my mind when I think about depression is a Christian song that goes “when I am down and my soul is weary….” Many people around you,  including family and close friends, are suffering from depression that we know absolutely nothing about until we are informed.

Depression is a very common health disorder and a serious medical condition that is characterized by a sudden or persistent depressed mood coupled with a loss of interest in most things like normal daily activities. Depression was called a “white man’s sickness” when I was much younger. I have come to realize that the statement was borne out of ignorance and the Nigerian mentality of hiding the head in the sand and wishing for something to go away.

 

Recently, there have been lots of cases of people either trying to or committing suicide but sadly, not enough is being said about depression so I have decided to address the term “DEPRESSION.” It is like a perpetual feeling of emptiness, aloneness, helplessness, and sadness. People that are depressed don’t really care about good and bad or what’s best for others; they just know that they are in pain and are desperate to end their pains. Most time, they mask their pains with a smile in a bid not to appear weak.

 

Depression has lots of symptoms which make it difficult to decipher when a person looks blue (depressed). Some of the symptoms include moodiness, anger, a feeling of being sad without knowing why, irregular sleep patterns, drastic change in appetite for food, sudden lack of desire to do normal everyday activities, lack of productivity, low self-esteem, frequent thought of death (suicidal thought), feeling of guilt, lack of energy, anxiety and so on. Causes of depression are numerous and different people are triggered by different things. Changes in body hormones, substance abuse, stressful events, and loss of loved ones are some of the causes.

 

I strongly believe that the average Nigerian is influenced the most by his family and religion. Sadly, these two institutions have chosen whether deliberately or not to ignore everything about depression. I can chalk off the family not talking about depression to ignorance but I can’t make the same excuse for religion. I will always speak for myself as a Christian and I can confidently say that I never heard anything about depression in Church this year. Depressed individuals have been failed by their families as a result of ignorance. If a person has been failed by his/her family, the church (religion) should be the next hope. Things will be a lot better and different if religious leaders harped on mental health the way they emphasize other issues.

 

There are treatments and preventions for depression that can help improve the quality of life of a depressed individual. The treatments are:

· Medications

Medication can greatly assist a depressed person. Some medications which will help include anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, and anti-psychotics which must be prescribed by medical personnel. Self-prescription is not advised as it has its potential risk as well as its benefits.

· Psychotherapy/ Therapy

I advise therapy from a professional, family, close associate and from religion. A therapy session can help with the negative feelings; the person learns to develop skills to fight the negative feeling. As of now, I haven’t heard anything concerning religious therapy because religion has not started addressing the issue of depression. The sooner depression is looked into by religion/ religious bodies; the more lives it will save. People are suffering from depression with no one to confide in. I am appealing to various religious institutions to begin to make effort to address DEPRESSION as soon as possible.

 

· Light therapy

Light therapy should be carried out by a professional; it is simply exposing white light to the depressed individual it has been proven to help beat the symptoms of depression and balance one’s mood.

Preventive techniques for depression are much as it’s hard to recognize the actual cause which makes it difficult to prevent it, but it is best to observe the following lifestyle therapies:

  •  Building strong relationships with people (a confidant).
  •  Getting plenty of sleep and rest.
  •  Reducing stress.
  •  Maintaining treatment.
  •  Regular exercise.

 

Certain supplements or lifestyles can reduce the effectiveness of medication and worsen depression. I did some research and spoke to a therapist and from my own discovery, I suggest some do’s and don’ts to be observed by people suffering from depression.

· Avoiding alcohol and drugs

Taking drugs and alcohol can worsen the symptoms of depression. Initially, when these substances have been taken, it makes you feel better but it is only deceiving you. It will enhance the symptoms and make the potential risk very high.

 

· Exercise

The body secretes endorphin hormone which improves your mood, self-esteem and ward off the feeling of depression and anxiety. Regular exercise will increase the production of the endorphin hormone that will greatly help the depressed person by triggering a positive feeling that will gradually get rid of the pains.

 

· Taking care of yourself

Eating a healthy diet, participating in enjoyable activities, getting plenty of sleep and rest, and avoiding negative people improves the symptoms of depression. In rare cases, depression doesn’t respond to medications so, it is best to take care of yourself.

 

· Saying NO

Learn to say NO to avoid the feeling of being overwhelmed. Symptoms of depression and anxiety can worsen by an overwhelmed feeling. Saying NO when the need arises can help you feel better.

Dealing with depression is very difficult and trying for everyone involved. If you are depressed, know that it’s okay to not be okay. Know that you’re not the only one out there suffering from it. Do not let shame or pride stop you from reaching out to people who do care about you because even though you may think no one cares, there are a lot of people who do.

Try as much as possible to reduce the stress you put yourself through if you think your depression is stress related and most importantly, see a professional for help. If your loved one is depressed, try as much as possible to be there for them while not suffocating them with your presence. Instead of creating a bond with a depressed person which you may break willingly or unwillingly, point that person in the direction of a professional. Do not in a bid to do good, end up doing more harm to the person.

 

A depressed person doesn’t want to see pity in your eyes. If a loved one opens up to you, he/she doesn’t need pity; it’s a support system the person wants. Try and be just that for them while treating them like everything is okay. Show the person unconditional love and try to convince him/her to go see a professional.

 

No matter what happens, if you find out you know someone who is depressed, try to show the person you’re there, if they need to talk, cry or vent, be their crutch. It will go a long way for the person emotionally even if they don’t admit it. Be a sibling, or simply a friend. Try to be nice to people you meet in your day-to-day activities. A kind word or smile can go a long way.

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Top 10 Underground Rappers in Atlanta

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Top 10 Underground Rappers in Atlanta

Atlanta has long been known as a hub for innovative and influential music, with a rich history of producing some of the most groundbreaking artists in hip hop. In recent years, a new generation of rappers has emerged in the city’s underground scene, blending elements of trap, punk, and rock to create a sound that is raw, authentic, and uniquely Atlanta. Here are the top 10 underground rappers in Atlanta that you need to know.

 

Young Nudy

One of the most prominent figures in Atlanta’s underground rap scene is Young Nudy. Originally from East Atlanta, Nudy gained notoriety with his 2016 mixtape “Slimeball,” which featured collaborations with fellow Atlanta rapper 21 Savage. Nudy’s music is characterized by its raw energy and unfiltered lyrics, which explore the realities of life in the inner city. His latest album, “DR. EV4L,” is a testament to his lyrical prowess and unique sound, blending elements of trap, drill, and punk rock to create an intense and emotional listening experience.

 

Lil Gotit

Lil Gotit is another rising star in Atlanta’s underground rap scene. Hailing from the city’s Zone 6 neighborhood, Gotit has been making a name for himself with his unique style, which blends trap music with elements of punk and rock. Gotit’s music is known for its aggressive beats and dark, moody lyrics that touch on themes of drugs, violence, and street life. His latest album, “Top Chef Gotit,” is a powerful testament to his talent and his ability to push the boundaries of what is possible in hip hop.

 

Yung Mal

Yung Mal is a rapper from the Westside of Atlanta, known for his gritty, street-inspired lyrics and his ability to craft compelling hooks. He first gained attention with his 2017 mixtape “1.5 Way or No Way,” which showcased his unique flow and his ear for melody. Since then, he has continued to build him following with a string of well-received projects, including “Iceburg,” “6 Rings,” and “1.5 Way or No Way 2.”

 

Hoodrich Pablo Juan

Hoodrich Pablo Juan is a rapper from Atlanta’s Zone 6 neighborhood, known for his smooth flow and his laid-back, melodic style. He first gained attention with his 2017 mixtape “Designer Drugz,” which showcased his ability to craft catchy hooks and memorable verses. Since then, he has continued to build him following with a string of well-received projects, including “BLO: The Movie,” “DMV,” and “Hood Champ.”

 

Lil Keed

Lil Keed is a rapper from Atlanta’s Southside, known for his unique flow and his ability to blend elements of trap, R&B, and rock music. He first gained attention with his 2018 mixtape “Trapped on Cleveland 2,” which showcased his emotive lyrics and his ability to create anthemic hooks. Since then, he has continued to build him following with a string of well-received projects, including “Long Live Mexico,” “Trapped on Cleveland 3,” and “A.

 

Kenny Mason

Kenny Mason is a rapper from Atlanta’s Westside, known for his introspective lyrics and his ability to blend elements of rap, rock, and alternative music. He first gained attention with his 2019 project “Angelic Hoodrat,” which showcased his unique perspective and his gift for storytelling. Since then, he has continued to build him following with a string of well-received projects, including “Angelic Hoodrat: Supercut” and “AngelDust.”

 

2FeetBino

2FeetBino is a rapper from Atlanta’s Eastside, known for his charismatic personality and his infectious, catchy hooks. He first gained attention with his 2018 mixtape “No More Mr. Nice Guy,” which showcased his ability to create party anthems and his natural talent for making people dance. Since then, he has continued to build his following with a string of well-received projects, including “Broken Dreams,” “A Story Never Told,” and “Southside to Hollywood.”

 

BRS Kash

BRS Kash is a rapper from Atlanta’s Westside, known for his energetic flow and his ability to create infectious hooks. He first gained attention with his breakout single “Throat Baby,” which went viral on TikTok and helped him to gain a massive following. Since then, he has continued to build his brand with a string of well-received projects, including “Kash Only,” “Hurtin’ My Wrist,” and “Kash App.”

 

Yung Baby Tate

Yung Baby Tate is a rapper and singer from Atlanta, known for her unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop music. She first gained attention with her 2018 project “BOYS,” which showcased her ability to create catchy, radio-friendly anthems that still retained a sense of authenticity and individuality. Since then, she has continued to build her following with a string of well-received projects, including “GIRLS,” “After the Rain,” and “IRL.”

 

Grip

Grip is a rapper from Atlanta, known for his introspective lyrics and his ability to blend elements of hip-hop, jazz, and spoken word poetry. He first gained attention with his 2017 project “Porch,” which showcased his gift for storytelling and his ability to capture the nuances of life in the inner city. Since then, he has continued to build him following with a string of well-received projects, including “Snubnose,” “HALO,” and “I Died for This!?”

 

Atlanta’s underground rap scene is full of talented and innovative artists, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in hip-hop. These 10 rappers represent the best of the best, each bringing their unique voice and perspective to the table. Whether you’re a fan of trap, punk, rock, R&B, or any other genre, there’s something for everyone in Atlanta’s thriving underground rap scene.

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Afrobeats: The Global Sound Taking Over the Music Industry

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Afrobeats

Afrobeats, also known as Afro-pop, is a music genre that originated in West Africa in the early 2000s. It is a fusion of traditional African rhythms, highlife, and hip-hop music. The genre has gained popularity globally in recent years and has become a dominant sound in mainstream music, particularly in Europe and the United States.

Origins of Afrobeats

Afrobeats originated from Nigeria, specifically from Lagos, the country’s commercial capital. The genre’s pioneers include Fela Kuti, King Sunny Ade, and Ebenezer Obey, who popularized African rhythms, particularly the Yoruba and Afrobeat sounds.

Afrobeats evolved in the 2000s with the emergence of a new generation of artists like D’banj, Wizkid, and Davido. These artists fused African rhythms with hip-hop, reggae, and R&B to create a unique sound that appealed to a wider audience.

Characteristics of Afrobeats

Afrobeats is characterized by its infectious rhythm, upbeat tempo, and danceable melodies. The music often features a blend of African percussion, guitar riffs, and electronic beats, with lyrics sung in a mix of English and African languages.

The music also emphasizes the importance of dance and often comes with a signature dance move that accompanies the song. For instance, the song “Zanku” by Zlatan Ibile comes with a dance move known as the Zanku legwork.

 

Global Popularity

Afrobeats have gained significant popularity outside of Africa in recent years. The genre’s popularity started to spread globally in 2012 when D’banj’s hit single “Oliver Twist” became a chart-topping song in the UK and the United States. The song opened up a global market for Afrobeats and paved the way for other African artists to break into the international music scene.

In recent years, Afrobeats has enjoyed massive success on the international scene, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido collaborating with international stars such as Beyoncé, Drake, and Chris Brown. These collaborations have helped to put Afrobeats on the world stage and bring the genre to a global audience.

 

The Future of Afrobeats

The future of Afrobeats looks bright, with the genre continuing to gain popularity across the globe. In 2020, Wizkid’s album “Made in Lagos” became the first Afrobeats album to reach the top 10 on the US Billboard 200 chart.

The popularity of Afrobeats is also evident in the number of Afrobeats-inspired events and festivals that are held globally. The annual Afro Nation festival, which started in 2019, is a three-day festival that celebrates Afrobeat music and culture. The festival has been held in Portugal and Ghana, attracting fans from around the world.

 

Importance Of Afrobeats

  1. Promotes African culture: Afrobeats is a fusion of traditional African music, Western pop, and hip-hop. The genre’s sound is infused with African rhythms, melodies, and languages. By celebrating African culture, Afrobeats help to preserve and promote the continent’s diverse cultural heritage.
  2. Economic growth: The rise of Afrobeats has been a catalyst for economic growth in Africa. The genre has created employment opportunities for artists, producers, sound engineers, and other professionals in the music industry. The genre’s popularity has also led to the growth of music festivals and concerts, which attract thousands of music lovers and generate revenue for local businesses.
  3. Social impact: Afrobeats has become a voice for the African youth, addressing issues such as political corruption, social inequality, and poverty. The genre’s lyrics often reflect the struggles of everyday life in Africa, inspiring hope and motivation among the youth.
  4. Global recognition: Afrobeats has gained popularity beyond the shores of Africa, with the genre’s biggest stars performing in major cities around the world. The genre has also attracted collaborations with international artists, which has helped to promote African culture to a global audience.
  5. Unity: Afrobeats has become a unifying force in Africa, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. The genre’s popularity has transcended borders, promoting a sense of pan-Africanism and solidarity among Africans.
  6. Inspiration: Afrobeats has inspired a new generation of African musicians and artists, who have embraced the genre’s sound and fused it with their own unique styles. The genre has also inspired the emergence of new African fashion styles and dance trends.

 

 

One of the defining characteristics of Afrobeat is its complex rhythm. It is based on traditional African rhythms, with a strong emphasis on percussion instruments like the conga, bongo, and shekere. The rhythm is often polyrhythmic, meaning that multiple rhythms are played at the same time, creating a layered and intricate sound. The bass guitar is also an important component of Afrobeat, providing a deep and groovy foundation for the rhythm section.

Another distinguishing feature of Afrobeat is its political and social commentary. The genre emerged during a time of political and social upheaval in Nigeria, and its early pioneers used their music as a platform to address issues like corruption, poverty, and inequality. Fela Kuti, one of the most influential figures in Afrobeat, was known for his political activism and his willingness to speak out against the Nigerian government. His music was a powerful tool for social change, and his lyrics continue to resonate with audiences today.

Afrobeat also incorporates elements of traditional African music and culture, such as call-and-response vocals and African dance styles. The lyrics often contain references to African culture, history, and spirituality, reflecting a deep connection to the African continent and its people. The use of African languages and dialects in the lyrics further emphasizes the genre’s cultural roots.

The incorporation of Western music styles into Afrobeat is another factor that sets it apart from other genres. The genre’s pioneers were heavily influenced by jazz and funk, and these influences can be heard in the complex harmonies and melodic structures of the music. The use of horns, keyboards, and other Western instruments adds a layer of sophistication to the sound, creating a unique fusion of African and Western music.

The performance style of Afrobeat is a key element of its uniqueness. Live performances are often energetic and engaging, with large bands and dynamic stage shows. The musicians are known for their improvisational skills, and solos are a common feature of the music. The audience is often encouraged to participate in the performance, with call-and-response vocals and dance breaks.

Afrobeat is a unique genre of music that combines traditional African rhythms, Western music styles, political and social commentary, and elements of African culture and spirituality. Its complex rhythm, political and social significance, cultural roots, incorporation of Western music styles, and engaging performance style are all factors that contribute to its distinctiveness. As Afrobeat continues to gain popularity around the world, it is clear that its unique sound and cultural significance will continue to make it a beloved and important genre of music.

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9 Health Benefits Of Coconut Water You Should Know

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What are the health benefits of coconut water? Here are 9 Health Benefits Of Coconut Water you should know about!

Growing up, I was told I would become intellectually dull if I drank coconut water so I avoided it like a plague. Being a child, I never wondered why all the cups of coconut water seemed to disappear soon after into the stomachs of adults around and the fact that they never went dull afterward. I just believed what I was told. Of course, I have long since come to know the truth about coconut water and I never fail to drink it each chance I get.

Coconut water is that whitish liquid found in the center of young, green coconuts. Not only is this juice delicious and refreshing, but it is also a major thirst quencher and comes packed with a lot of beneficial nutrients.

Each young coconut contains amazing nutrients like potassium, magnesium, b-complex, zinc, vitamins, amino acids, cytokinins, and copper. It is also low in calories and rich in antioxidants useful for ridding your body of toxins.

Here are Some Reasons You Should Take Coconut Water

1. Keeps You Rehydrated after an Exercise

Coconut water has a high electrolyte composition which makes it a good choice for replacing fluid lost through sweating or vomiting. It is readily absorbed into your body so one or two cups taken after a vigorous exercise session will rehydrate your body and give you an energy boost.

2. Lowers Blood Pressure

Taking coconut water regularly will also help you manage your blood pressure if you sure suffer from a high one as stated by recent research published in the West Indian Medical Journal in 2005.

Coconut water is high in vitamin c, potassium, and magnesium, key nutrients that help regulate blood pressure. It also contains arginine, an important element needed for relaxing your blood vessels and promoting blood circulation.

3. An Excellent Cure for Hangovers

Hangovers are caused in part by dehydration, which is why you feel funny when you have one. Since coconut water rehydrates you, it will have you feeling better in no time.

 

4. Eliminates Stomach Upset

If you are experiencing an upset stomach, then you should take one or two cups of coconut water. This natural health-enhancing juice has the ability to heal stomach upset caused by an inflamed stomach lining as it contains tannins, an important element known for reducing inflammation.

 

5. Promotes Weight Loss

Coconut water promotes weight loss and maintenance in that it is low in calories. People who choose to replace their regular high-sugar drinks with coconut water report significant weight loss and maintenance over time.

Coconut water is also high in fiber which will keep you feeling full for longer.

 

6. It is Beneficial for Pregnant Women

Pregnant women experience a lot of discomforts and sometimes illness during their pregnancy. Some of these include nausea, heartburn, and constipation.

Coconut water is recommended for pregnant women as it aids digestion, which will in turn eliminate heartburn and constipation during pregnancy.

 

7. It Boosts Immunity

Due to the dense nutrient composition of coconut water, taking it will boost your immunity. The vitamins, lauric acid, and essential nutrients will keep your body fortified to keep away infections.

 

8. Coconut Water is Anti-aging

Again, the lauric acid and antimicrobial properties of coconut water work on your skin, keeping off infections, wrinkles, and fine lines.

It will also eliminate blemishes, acne, sun-damaged skin, and other skin infections.

 

9. Revitalizes Damaged Hair

The rich vitamin K and iron content of coconut water work to revitalize your damaged hair, restoring it to its previous healthy state, It will also eliminate dandruff, and hair loss, and treat the dry frizzy scalp.

Coconut water is considered safe and has no known recorded side effects. You can take as much as you want, however, pregnant or nursing women are advised to take this health tonic on the directives of their healthcare professional.

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