Assessing if you are depressed

All of us feel blue sometimes when sad events happen or when life doesn't go according to plan. Usually, we snap out of it after a while and get back on an even keel. This is different from depression, which is a clinical condition requiring expert support and treatment.

Unfortunately, many people don't understand that this difference exists and continue to believe that depression is merely a sign of weakness. As a result, many people don’t seek professional help, which means many individuals struggle alone. Given the range of successful treatments that are available, this is completely unnecessary. 

Tips and tools you can use

Recognising when the line has been crossed to depression, is key to finding a solution. However, it's important to understand that symptoms can vary according to the triggers and your personality. Talk to your health care provider about your concerns. Meanwhile, here is some information to help you understand depression:

Causes of depression

• Biological changes within the brain combine with a variety of lifestyle, stress, or personality contributors.
• Contributing stresses may include bereavement, divorce, major lifestyle changes, traumatic events, and serious illness of self or a loved one.
• Genetics.
• Personality factors can make some people more vulnerable, especially introverts, worriers, and highly sensitive people in un supportive environments.
• Isolation and lack of social support can be a potential contributor.
• Certain illnesses can trigger an imbalance in biological chemicals in the brain.
• Postpartum depression is a condition that can arise following the hormonal changes of pregnancy and delivery.

Symptoms of depression

• disinterest in getting up to start each day
• sad, dark mood
• a feeling of lethargy, fatigue, restlessness or social withdrawal
• changes in appetite, weight and sleeping patterns
• reduced interest or pleasure in activities
• lowered self-esteem
• difficulty with thinking, concentration, and making decisions
• feeling that life is purposeless and empty
• irrational feelings of guilt
• thoughts of hurting self or others
• thoughts of death or suicide

Steps you can take

• Talk to a health professional. Highly successful treatments are available, and a doctor will recommend the right one for your symptoms.
• If your health care provider prescribes medication, it is important to keep taking it even if symptoms at first persist. Many medications take 3-6 weeks to be effective.
• Walk, jog, or attend a fitness club regularly. Exercise aids the release of endorphins, which contribute to a feeling of wellbeing.
• Spend at least two hours a week in nature.
• Follow healthy sleep habits—go to bed at the same time each night. Consider a warm bath or drinking a mug of milk before bed to encourage relaxation.
• Follow a balanced, nutritious diet.
• Cut back or eliminate caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine.
• If you have suicidal thoughts or thoughts of hurting others, call the emergency services or crisis line immediately. Find a helpline by country at Befrienders.org.

_{This article is not intended to replace professional consultation. Please see your health provider for all medical concerns.}