Peter J
True depression is a severe mental health disorder that harms someone’s life. It can cause a person to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and unable to cope with everyday life. Symptoms of true depression can include feelings of sadness and hopelessness, loss of interest in activities that used to bring joy, poor concentration and memory, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, fatigue, and thoughts of suicide. A doctor diagnoses true depression after ruling out other potential causes for the symptoms. Treatment often includes medication and psychotherapy.
In contrast to true depression, feeling down or “the blues” is generally considered a temporary emotional state that usually passes within a few days. People may feel down due to stress at work or school, relationship problems, or disappointment in themselves or others. Feelings of sadness or low self-esteem are common but do not typically interfere with daily life. If these feelings persist for more than two weeks or become more intense, it may be time to seek professional help.
Depression is a Serious Health Issue
Depression is a severe public health issue, with an estimated 17.3 million adults in the United States having at least one major depressive episode in 2017. Worldwide, more than 264 million people of all ages suffer from depression.
“That’s the thing about depression: A human being can survive almost anything as long as she sees the end in sight. But depression is so insidious and compounds daily, that it’s impossible to ever see the end,” explains Elizabeth Wurtzel, author of Prozac Nation.
Signs of True Depression
If you are experiencing any symptoms of true depression, seeking help from a mental health professional is essential. It can be challenging to recognize when one’s feelings have gone beyond feeling down, and it is important to be aware of the signs of true depression. These signs may include:
- Having a low mood, including feeling very sad, empty or hopeless. Children and adolescents may be irritable rather than sad.
- Loss of interest in things and activities that you used to enjoy.
- Increase or decrease in appetite, which may result in gaining or losing weight.
- Slowed speech, decreased movement and impaired cognitive function.
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia) or sleeping too much (hypersomnia).
- Low energy or fatigue.
- Excessive feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
- Decreased focus.
- Thoughts of death or suicide.
If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks or become more intense, it may be time to seek professional help.
What to Do When Feeling Blue
The difference between feeling blue and true depression is essential to recognize. Feeling down or “the blues” is generally considered a temporary emotional state that usually passes within a few days. This may be due to stress at work or school, relationship problems, or disappointment in oneself or others. Although feeling down can be unpleasant and uncomfortable, it does not typically interfere with daily life. True depression, on the other hand, is a chronic mental health condition that requires professional help.
One way to cope with feeling blue is to focus on small, achievable goals. Setting realistic, reachable goals for ourselves can give us a sense of accomplishment and help us feel more in control of our lives. Talking about our feelings with friends or family members can also be beneficial. An understanding support system and a safe space to express emotions can help us work through difficult times. Finally, taking care of ourselves through physical activity, healthy eating habits, and getting enough sleep can help us feel mentally and physically better.
Alternative Treatments for Depression
In addition to traditional therapies such as medication and psychotherapy, alternative treatments are available for depression. These may include
- Exercise
- Yoga
- Mindfulness techniques
- Acupuncture
- Herbal remedies.
While not all alternative treatments have proven scientifically effective, many people have found them to help manage their symptoms. Exercise has been shown to positively affect mental health by releasing endorphins that can improve mood and reduce stress.
Yoga and mindfulness techniques can help us focus on the present moment rather than ruminate on past events or worry about the future. Acupuncture has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to restore balance within the body and mind. Herbal remedies such as St John’s wort may also help relieve symptoms of depression.
Talking with your doctor before trying alternative treatments is important since some may interact with medications or other therapies you are already taking.
With the right help and support, it is possible to manage depression and live a healthy and fulfilling life.
