What is Depression?

Many people experience symptoms of depression, in fact, it is estimated that 2 out of 5 people experience these symptoms every day. However these everyday blues are often described as short-term depression and can be managed over a short period of time without treatment. Depression can affect any kind of person at any stage in their life whether they are an introvert or extravert, socially active or shy.

Depression that is usually more stubborn is called a depressive disorder, a type of mood disorder. Major depressive disorder affects and individual’s ability to carry out daily activities and the feelings of satisfaction within their relationships with others for at least two weeks.

So what does depression look like in an individual:

• Unusually sad mood

• Feeling hollow or guilty even when not at fault

• Loss of enjoyment in activities or hobbies that used to be pleasurable

• Lack of energy and tiredness

• Lack of concentration

• Overeating or not eating enough

• Movements become slower

• Being agitated and unable to settle

• Unable to sleep or sleeping too much

Medication and increasing levels of activity can serve as a huge positive impact on your mental health. Here are some of the things you can try:

• Going for a walk

• Soaking in a hot tub

• Aromatherapy

• Gardening

• Meditation

• Reading a book

• Going for a massage

• Going to the beach

There are endless amounts of self-care activities that could boost your motivation. Take some time to breathe and relax when things become too overwhelming and seem like a lot to handle. You got this!