Ups and downs are a part of everyone’s life. Financial concerns, relationship problems, the loss of a loved one, and the list goes on. Life can be unexpected, and it can be sometimes difficult to walk with our heads up. But often, when our situation gets better, the sadness fades away, and we return to our everyday happy lives.

depression

But what if this sadness does not go away? Even when there is no major stressor in life? Suppose your sadness becomes too strong and lasts too long. Your bad mood is not resolving on its own, or your feelings of hopelessness and despair are not going away with time — interfering with your work, study, and daily life activities. In that case, this might be a sign of depression.

Unlike normal sadness, depression does not go away on its own, and it can become an overpowering aspect of your life. Here are some symptoms of depression that can help you see whether what you’re feeling is just normal sadness or depression.

  • Hopelessness: You have a very bleak outlook on life. You feel as if everything is worthless and nothing can help your situation.
  • Loss of energy: You feel extremely tired, even with proper sleep and nutrition. You can’t find the energy to do even simple tasks. You feel physically and mentally drained. You may also experience decreased sex drive.
  • Loss of interest in daily activities: Hobbies or other fun activities are not enjoyable anymore. You find it hard to feel joy or pleasure like you once did.
  • Self-loathing: You feel worthless and have an overly critical view of yourself. Your emotions quickly change and become too overwhelming.
  • Irritability: You feel restless and even angry at times. It is difficult for you to control your emotions and feel better. You have a meager resistance to stress.
  • Health Changes: You experience a significant change in your weight, either weight loss or weight gain. Problems such as insomnia, fatigue, unknown aches, etc.
  • Inability to concentrate: It is difficult for you to focus or pay attention to anything. You have a terrible memory and a hard time remembering even essential details.
  • Harmful Behavior: You engage in destructive activities such as substance abuse, reckless driving, etc., and care very little about your safety.
  • Suicidal thoughts: You feel no interest in living and often have ideas about death or committing suicide.

You do not need to go through this alone. Our outpatient psychiatric services are tailored to your specific needs and we are concerned with your whole health. Treatment of depression is one of many services we offer in this area. Contact us today at (484) 373-2710 or schedule your appointment online to get started on your recovery and treatment. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is also available for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call 1-800-273-8255 to get connected to the lifeline.

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