What is Depression?
While it is normal to feel sad in response to upsetting situations, if your sadness lasts longer than two weeks and starts to interfere with your life, you may have depression. This may look like not being about to engage or enjoy your social life, work life, or other normal activities. Depression is a mood disorder where treatment with a doctor and mental health provider is recommended.
Depression is similar to putting on a pair of glasses that make you see everything in a different, usually more negative perspective. You can think of it like the opposite of rose-colored glasses.
What are the symptoms of depression?:
Symptoms of depression can look different for different people and may include:
- Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless often or all of the time
- Feeling irritable‚ easily frustrated‚ or restless often or all of the time
- Having little interest or pleasure in anything
- Significant weight loss or gain
- Sleep difficulties (sleeping too much or too little)
- Feelings of restlessness or being slowed down
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feeling worthless or overly guilty
- Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
- Having thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Recommendations if you think you may be Depressed:
1. Learn About Depression: Understanding why you feel this way can help you feel less alone.
2. Talk to Someone: Sharing your feelings with someone you trust or a professional can make you feel supported.
3. Do Things You Enjoy: Even if you don't feel like it, doing activities you used to love can lift your spirits.
4. Stay Active: Going for a walk, moving your body, or exercising can boost your mood and energy.
5. Eat Well: Eating nourishing foods and drinking plenty of water can improve your body and mood.
6. Take it Easy: Don't push yourself too hard. It's okay to rest when you need it.
7. Ask For Help: If you're thinking about hurting yourself, getting help right away is important. Call 911 or 988 for immediate assistance.
If you think you may be depressed, it is important to connect with your doctor and a mental health therapist. By learning about depression and getting help, you can work towards feeling better.
