Humilis

The Lows

Humilis is a disease suffered by witches that is almost identical to human depression, with one notable difference: when a witch contracts Humilis, it is difficult for them to summon their magic, meaning their magic is either weak or virtually non-existent.
Cian Ryan suffers from Humilis, despite treatment, and must reschedule his appointments on days where he feels unwell as a result of weakened magic.

Transmission & Vectors

Humilis can be congenital or acquired. It is not infectious, although there is a definite genetic component.

Causes

Like humans' depression, Humilis is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. It can be permanent or temporary.

Symptoms

Humilis manifests itself with anxiety, fatigue, apathy, loss of interest in activities, sadness, and hopelessness, amongst many other symptoms. In witches, Humilis also manifests with magical problems: witches have a difficult time summoning their magic when they have Humilis.

Treatment

There is no cure for Humilis. However, there is a potion given by Healers that can aid in lessening the symptoms. Although many witches admit the need for therapy, they do not practice it. (This is because it is deemed "too human.")

Prognosis

The prognosis for those with Humilis is fairly good, especially with treatment. However, not everyone can be cured of Humilis, and many witches live with it, unfortunately.

Prevention

Both congenital and acquired Humilis cannot be prevented.

Epidemiology

As mentioned, Humilis can be congenital. However, acquired Humilis tends to appear at certain times in witches' lives, including the onset of puberty, exams and promotions, and the onset of old age.

History

Along with human depression, Humilis was first noted by Healers in ancient Greece. Throughout history, it has been termed melancholia (as was human depression), but when it became clear that Humilis affected magic as well, witches differentiated it by giving the condition a new name.

Cultural Reception

Although over a third of witches will suffer from Humilis in their lifetime, the cultural reception varies from empathetic to ostracization. Because it is 1). a disease humans also suffer from and 2). a disease that cannot be cured by magic, many view the disease as abnormal. Although most witches will feel empathy for those suffering, there is a small portion that believes Humilis can be cured with attitude changes (although this is untrue) and believe witches suffering from the condition should be housed away from the general population.

Type

Mental

Origin

Natural

Cycle

Chronic, Acquired & Congenital

Rarity

Uncommon

Affected Species

• Witch