Mild depression, despite its name, can feel chronically debilitating and distressing, and it is sometimes known as ‘functional’ depression, which means that you can still go to work, see your friends and cook dinner, but you feel dead and joyless inside.
The first and most obvious symptom is a feeling of low mood, and a loss of pleasure or interest in things that usually generate pleasure. Any changes in appetite are significant, as is sleep disturbance. For a minority, excessive sleeping occurs, suggesting a desire to turn away from the world and to escape reality.
Are you feeling so tired and flat that you can’t be bothered to change your clothes or clean your teeth? Have your friends commented that you appear agitated or restless? Have you lost or gained weight recently, and are you having problems sleeping, or don’t want to get out of bed in the morning?
Some people become agitated or restless, unable to sit still. Others feel slowed down in their thinking, speech and body movements. Major depression can also bring with it low energy levels, tiredness and fatigue. Sufferers often report that the slightest thing is too much effort, and activities become more and more limited, until even eating, washing and dressing ceases.
Do you find yourself constantly thinking about the past, and feeling upset, angry or guilty about things you may or may not have done? Do you think that everything that has gone wrong in your life is your fault?
Cognitive (thinking) changes include feelings of worthlessness and guilt. Many sufferers describe unrealistic negative beliefs about themselves. They feel guilty or preoccupied with past events, ruminating on mistakes or perceived failings.
Have you stopped watching your favourite TV shows or reading books because you get distracted and cannot follow the storyline?
People often report being unable to concentrate when they are depressed. They find it difficult to follow a TV show or read a paper. Some find reading books almost impossible, becoming easily distracted, often by their negative thoughts. They also report being unable to make even the simplest of decisions.
Do you wish that you didn’t have to wake up in the morning, that it would be easier if you just disappeared? Or do you have thoughts about how you would like to end it all — even a plan? If so, go and see your GP immediately.
Many people experience frightening and distressing thoughts about death and suicide. These thoughts can arise as wishing they did not have to wake up in the morning or not wanting to be here anymore, to fleeting thoughts about wishing to be dead. Some even think through active plans to harm or kill themselves.
If you are experiencing the above symptoms, alongside low mood and a loss of pleasure, you could be diagnosed with depression.
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