What does depression feel like?
With more than 21 million adults in the US suffering from depression, it is more common than ever to be experiencing mental and physical symptoms that affect your daily life. Depression is often described as a profound and persistent feeling of sadness or emptiness, yet its experience can vary widely among individuals. It’s more than just feeling sad or having a bad day; it’s a deep, pervasive sense of despair that can affect every aspect of a person’s life.
Depression can manifest in many ways and can be experienced by anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. What exactly does depression feel like?
In this article, we will delve deeper into the symptoms of depression, feelings, and real-life examples to provide you with a better understanding of this condition.
What does depression feel like? What are the symptoms of depression?
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a serious medical condition that can affect how you feel, think, and act. For a proper diagnosis, you must experience symptoms for at least two weeks, noting a change in daily function (like an inability to keep up with household chores or get your work done as you once did).
Emotional symptoms of depression
The emotional symptoms of depression are often the most recognizable and distressing aspects of the disorder. You would typically experience a pervasive and persistent sadness that can linger for weeks, months, or even years. This deep sadness is often accompanied by a profound sense of hopelessness, making the future seem bleak and devoid of any positive prospects. When you struggle with depression, you frequently feel overwhelming feelings of worthlessness and excessive guilt, sometimes over minor issues or perceived failings.
Additionally, irritability and anger can surface, often inexplicably, and be directed towards yourself or others. Another hallmark emotional symptom is anhedonia, the loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed, which can lead to social withdrawal and further feelings of isolation. These emotional disturbances can create a debilitating cycle, as the negative feelings and thoughts reinforce each other, making it challenging to break free from the grip of depression.
In summary, if you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be wise to consult a mental health professional for an evaluation. Here is the list:
- Persistent sadness. An unshakeable feeling of sadness that lingers day after day, often without a clear cause.
- Hopelessness. A sense that nothing will ever get better and there is no light at the end of the tunnel.
- Worthlessness and guilt. Intense feelings of worthlessness, inadequacy, and excessive guilt over real or imagined faults.
- Irritability and anger. Short temper, frustration, and irritability, often over minor issues.
- Loss of interest. A marked disinterest in activities once enjoyed, including hobbies, social interactions, and even sex.
Symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe, so note what you are experiencing and for how long it has been going on. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, contact your Makin Wellness counselor for a diagnosis, a treatment plan, and to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms.
Like some people, you might also experience what is known as “high-functioning depression,” where you can still keep up with daily tasks and struggle mentally and emotionally. This type of depression can be hard to identify, as you are able to mask your symptoms and continue with your daily life. It is still a severe condition that requires treatment.
Let’s summarize:
- Difficulty concentrating. Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
- Illogical thought patterns. Persistent unhealthy thoughts, such as “I’m a failure” or “Life isn’t worth living.”
Indecisiveness. An inability to make even simple decisions, leading to procrastination and a feeling of being overwhelmed.
Describing the experience of what depression feels like
Depression is often linked to a black cloud or a heavy weight that you carry around. It can feel like being stuck in a dark, endless tunnel with no way out. For some, it’s a numbness, an inability to feel any emotions at all, like living in a void. It can be accompanied by feelings of anger, restlessness, or a sense of disconnection from reality.
Unhealthy thoughts pervade, creating a persistent sense of worthlessness and despair. It may feel like being trapped in a dark tunnel with no end in sight, leading to isolation and a disconnection from the world and people around them. This deeply personal and pervasive experience underscores the importance of understanding and empathy for those living with depression.
Real-life examples of what depression feels like include:
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- “It’s like being in a room full of people but feeling completely alone. You want to connect with others, but you just can’t.”
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- “It’s like I’m living in slow motion while everyone else is moving at normal speed.”
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- “I feel like I’m constantly running on empty. No amount of sleep or rest seems to help.”
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- “Everything feels meaningless. I don’t see the point in doing anything anymore.”
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- “My mind is always racing with negative thoughts and worries, even when everything in my life is going well.”
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- “I feel stuck in a never-ending cycle of sadness and hopelessness. Nothing seems to get better.”
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- “On the outside, I seem happy and successful, but on the inside, I’m struggling to keep it together.”
No matter what your experience with depression looks like, it can look different for everyone. You may not experience all of the symptoms listed above, or you may experience a few or all of them at once. This can remain consistent each day or change drastically from one day to the next. This can be one of the most frustrating and defeating parts of depression.
Where do depressive thoughts come from?
Depressive thoughts often stem from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. These factors can significantly impair your mental processes, making daily functioning challenging.
- Genetic factors:
- Family history: A family history of depression can increase your risk of developing depressive thoughts.
- Inherited traits: Certain genetic traits can make you more susceptible to depression.
- Biological factors:
- Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, can affect your mood and thought processes.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can contribute to depression.
- Medical conditions: Chronic illnesses or neurological disorders can influence brain function and lead to depressive thoughts.
- Environmental factors:
- Stressful life events: Traumatic events, loss of a loved one, financial problems, or major life changes can trigger depression.
- Social isolation: Lack of social support and meaningful connections can increase feelings of loneliness and depression.
- Unhealthy lifestyle: Poor diet, lack of exercise, and substance abuse can negatively impact mental health.
- Psychological factors:
- Unhealthy thinking patterns: Persistent unhealthy thoughts, such as pessimism or self-criticism, can contribute to depression.
- Low self-esteem: Feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth can lead to depressive thoughts.
- Past trauma: Experiences of abuse, neglect, or other trauma can have long-lasting effects on mental health.
How can you manage depression?
Even though coping with depression can be a long and challenging journey, it is possible. Here are some ways you can begin to improve your symptoms and overcome depression:
- Challenge unhealthy thoughts: Depression can often be fueled by unhealthy thinking patterns. Work on identifying and challenging these thoughts (also known as cognitive reframing) with more positive and realistic ones.
- Seek professional help: This can include counseling, medication, or a combination of these. A mental health professional can provide individualized treatment that addresses your specific needs.
- Reach out for support: Talk to friends and family about what you’re going through, join a support group, or connect with others online who are going through similar experiences. You don’t have to go through this alone. Isolation makes the symptoms of depression worse. Connecting with others can often help ease symptoms.
- Practice self-care: This includes eating well, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Showing yourself love through self-care actions is a powerful way to combat depression, which often makes you feel like you don’t want to do anything.
- Make lifestyle changes: Sometimes, small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference. This can include setting boundaries, saying no to things that cause unnecessary stress, or taking breaks throughout the day.
- Remember that overcoming depression is not a linear process, and it may take time to see improvements. Be patient with yourself, take baby action steps toward relief, and celebrate even the smallest victories along the way.
How to get help
If you think you may be experiencing depression, seeking help from a Makin Wellness therapist is a crucial step in your mental health journey. Therapists are trained to understand and address the complexities of depression, offering personalized support and evidence-based treatments. They can help you navigate your emotions, develop coping strategies, and work towards regaining a sense of balance and overall mental health. Moreover, having a supportive, non-judgmental space to express feelings can significantly alleviate the burden of depression.
Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and professional support can make a significant difference in your journey towards better mental health. With Makin Wellness online therapy, you can take the first step towards reclaiming your mental health anytime, anywhere. It’s a convenient, effective, and compassionate solution designed to fit your lifestyle and help you navigate the challenges of depression. Don’t let depression hold you back—embrace the opportunity for change and growth with online therapy today.
Call our care team to make an online therapy appointment at (833)-274-heal or visit our website.
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