Depression: When and how to get help

Written by: Lynn       Editted by: Alex
We all feel sad from time to time, whether it is from scoring badly on an exam or losing your job. It is normal to feel sad and express this emotion as a response to negative situations. However, if you notice that this feeling of sadness never seems to fade away and lingers for a long period of time, it might possibly be a symptom of depression. Knowing how to spot depression is important in helping to protect ourselves and our loved ones. With early detection, you will be readier to fight the blues.

Before we delve into the symptoms of depression, it is important for us to understand exactly what depression is and how it affects us if we have it. Depression, also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression, is a common and serious mood disorder. Those who suffer from depression will experience persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, and lose interest in activities that they once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home. To be diagnosed with clinical depression, these symptoms must be present for at least two weeks and must represent a change in your previous level of functioning.

So, how do we identify the signs of depression to get help for ourselves or others?
Here are some symptoms of depression, which can vary from mild to severe:

* ●    Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
* ●    Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
* ●    Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
* ●    Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
* ●    Loss of energy or increased fatigue
* ●    Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., inability to sit still, pacing, handwringing) OR slowed movements or speech (these actions must be severe enough to be observable by others)
* ●    Feeling worthless or guilty
* ●    Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
* ●    Thoughts of death or suicide

Certain medical conditions such as thyroid problems or vitamin deficiency can also mimic symptoms of depression hence it is important to rule out these general medical causes. It is important to seek a professional to get a proper diagnosis, and not self-diagnose.

If you have been constantly feeling low and notice yourself experiencing some or all of the symptoms above, it is appropriate to seek professional medical help, especially so if thoughts of death or suicide are present. It is important not to self-diagnose or self-manage without speaking to a medical professional first. Don't be embarrassed if you need to seek help for depression. Always remember that you are worth it! We all need a helping hand at times and there is nothing wrong in seeking or asking for help.

If you know of anyone who is experiencing these symptoms or if you think you may be suffering from depression, feel free to email us any questions or contact us to book a session. Remember, you’re not alone in this!