Clinical depression is a serious issue that plagues millions of people all around the world. It’s not like just feeling a little blue or somewhat sad. Clinical depression can sap one’s desire to do anything, to get out of bed, to eat, to go to work.
If you or someone you know is showing signs of serious depression, reach out. There’s no reason to suffer: you can get help.
Depression Symptoms
Fatigue
One of the most pervasive parts of depression is the all-encompassing tiredness. Fatigue, as it is clinically called, is a serious problem for depression sufferers. Simple tasks, like folding laundry, making food or making the bed seem insurmountable. Lying in bed, scrolling through social media or watching Netflix becomes the default state.
Despair
A feeling of inescapable despair, that nothing matters and that all will be washed away is a huge aspect of depression. All-or-nothing reasoning, hopelessness and a desire to avoid reality tend to go hand-in-hand with this kind of despair. Pessimism tends to flow out from this type of reasoning into everyday scenarios.
Irritability
People who are suffering with depression are often stricken by bouts of irascible irritability that baffle even themselves. Often, sufferers find themselves snapping at people who offer help or critique their bleak worldview. This irritability often leads to the depressed person becoming more isolated, thus further fueling their depression.
Loneliness
Feelings of isolation and loneliness, whether accurate or not, are also common among depressed persons. These emotions can be brought on by legitimate loneliness, or completely unrelated to reality. In fact, many people with depression who are actually surrounded by friends can feel totally alone due to their disorder.
Apathy
Feelings of apathy can also be related to depression. A lack of desire to engage with the things one once found fascinating can signal depression. Often, this extends to many different aspects of one’s life, including entertainment, hobbies, loved ones and even lovers.
Depression vs. General Sadness
Life can be sad. There will be times when you become melancholy, sad, maybe even inconsolable over the events in your life. However, this isn’t inherently depression. Everyone gets sad from time to time, but time normally takes some of that sting away.
If you’re finding that you can’t bounce back from the things giving you the blues, and that you’re feeling ever more isolated and pessimistic, you may be suffering from depression. Don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor and attempt to connect with a therapist.
Remember, depression is a real disease and a serious threat. You should treat it as the medical issue that it is, and make sure you see a doctor. It’s better to reach out and face this problem head-on with friends and doctors on your side.