Depression is a condition of general emotional dejection and withdrawal; sadness greater and more prolonged than that warranted by any objective reason
Hopelessness is a key characteristic of depression. It is one of the few illnesses which perpetuates itself, as one of the symptoms of depression is that it tells you that your situation is hopeless – and that there is no point in getting help. This is one of the reasons why many individuals stay trapped with depression for a lifetime – unless they get help.
SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION
Thoughts and behaviour patterns
• You are unable to enjoy life anymore.
• You have lost interest in activities you used to enjoy – for example, going out, hobbies etc
• Your mood is persistently low or depressed.
• You are struggling to concentrate on everyday tasks you can usually perform.
• You are not taking care of yourself – for example eating poorly, not washing every day, or staying in bed.
• You feel 'flat' or numb.
• You are struggling to make decisions or remember things.
• You are experiencing increased mood swings, irritability or restlessness.
• You are struggling to control persistent negative thoughts.
• You have overwhelming feelings of guilt, worthlessness or self-loathing.
• You are hypercritical of your perceived mistakes or flaws.
• You feel hopeless, that life is no longer worth living or that you are unable to improve your situation.
Physical symptoms
• You are struggling to sleep (insomnia), are sleeping too much (hypersomnia) – or have disturbed sleep.
• You have low energy levels and feel lethargic or sluggish.
• Everyday tasks seem to take you longer to do and are exhausting.
• You are eating too much or have lost your appetite.
• You have gained or lost a significant amount of weight over a relatively short period of time.
• You have unexplained physical or digestive pain – for example, headaches, muscle pain, back or stomach aches.
Social
• You are becoming increasingly preoccupied or distant from those around you.
• You have started neglecting important relationships – for example, spending less and less time with your partner or spouse, children or friends.
• You are doing less of the things that were important to you, for example, going out, seeing friends or family, or enjoying hobbies.
• You are neglecting responsibilities at home or work – for example, not taking proper care of your children or underperforming in your job.
If you can relate to any of these, it may be time for you to get help to deal with your depression.
FOR USEFUL TIPS ON HANDLING DEPRESSION CLICK HERE
FOR SELF HELP ON DEPRESSION CLICK HERE
People with "Type A" personalities, for example, are rushed, ambitious, time-conscious and driven. Studies suggest these traits, if not properly managed, can create depression/stress-related illnesses. In contrast, the "Type B" personality is a much more relaxed, less time-conscious and driven person. Type B personalities are able to view things more adaptively. They are better able to put things into perspective, and think through how they are going to deal with situations. Consequently they tend to be less stress-prone. For more details on Type A personality click here
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