We have all felt sad at times, however, some people experience feelings of intense and persistent sadness, which affects their day to day life.
What is depression?
Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyed. Depression can also cause physical symptoms such as fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating.
How can depression last for?
Depression is a serious mental condition, and can last for weeks or even be lifelong.
Depression may be a short-lived that resolves on its own or with treatment and help from professionals, while for others it may be a recurring condition that requires ongoing management. In some cases, depression can also become chronic if left untreated.
How can you tell if someone has depression?
Depression can manifest differently in each person, some common signs and symptoms of depression include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite and sleep patterns, such as sleeping too much or too little
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches
It can be as a result of multiple factors, or for no apparent reason. Remember to always be kind to one another as you never know what another person is going through. 💚
