Let’s face it – life can be pretty tough sometimes. Especially when ‘sometimes’ is the year 2020! Not all of us cope in the same way, and that is okay. Some of us take the crises in our stride. For others, the uncertainty, stress, uncertainty, and fear-driven headlines get too much, and they start developing symptoms of depression.
Are you just going through a temporary struggle, or should you consult a doctor? about depression?
In most instances, those hard-to-shake symptoms of fatigue, forgetfulness and feeling flustered are more likely to be signs of a burn-out, which can still be serious if you continue ignoring them.
Depression, on the other hand, is a very serious mental health condition. And it seems to have become almost mainstream – if you consider the number of people who are diagnosed, receiving treatment or taking medication for it. But what is depression really? Feeling unhappy at work? Experiencing those burn-out symptoms we mentioned above? That’s not depression, especially if the symptoms are just fleeting periods of feeling sad, anxious or isolated.
Signs of depression
- Agitation
- Believing that things won’t get better, or what you’re doing is pointless
- Difficulty sleeping at night
- Losing interest in hobbies and activities that you normally enjoy
- Having suicidal thoughts and tendencies
- Not being able to shake your negative mood
- Generally feeling empty, isolated and like no one understands what you’re going through
What contributes to depression?
When it comes to causes of depression, genetics also play a big role. So, if your mother or father suffer from depression there’s a very real chance you will too at some stage of your life. Alcohol, drug abuse, traumatic experiences and dread diseases (like cancer for example) are also factors which can lead to depression.
Finding help
If you’re reading this, and your symptoms sound a lot like depression, it’s very important that you get help. Depression is a tangible illness, and it CAN be treated successfully, not just with medication but also with positive lifestyle changes and therapy.
So don’t be ashamed! Speak to one of our doctors, through the Hello Doctor app. Remember, the sooner depression is diagnosed the sooner you can begin treatment and start on the road to recovery.