Depression is a common mental health problem that affects people of all ages, including kids, teens, and adults. It’s more than just feeling sad for a little while—it’s a serious condition that can make everyday life feel really hard. It affects how they think, sleep, eat, or even enjoy things they used to like. It’s like carrying a heavy backpack every day, but the weight doesn’t go away on its own. Learn more about what depression is, how it happens, and how to get help if you or someone you know is struggling.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
Here are some common signs of depression:
- Feeling sad or hopeless most of the time:
- Hopelessness means feeling like nothing will get better, no matter what you try. It can make people feel like giving up on things they care about or used to enjoy.
- Not enjoying things that used to be fun:
- People might stop doing their hobbies, avoid spending time with others, or even feel like everything is boring or meaningless.
- Feeling tired or having no energy:
- Everyday tasks like getting out of bed, going to school, or even brushing your teeth can feel like climbing a mountain.
- Change in sleep patterns. This can happen in two ways:
- Trouble Sleeping (Insomnia): You might lie awake at night worrying, overthinking, or feeling restless.
- Sleeping Too Much (Hypersomnia): Some people sleep a lot but still feel tired, using sleep as a way to escape from their feelings.
- Changes in appetite. You might be either:
- Eating Too Little: You might lose your appetite completely or forget to eat because food doesn’t seem important.
- Eating Too Much: Some people turn to food for comfort, eating more than usual, especially snacks or sweets.
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions:
- People might struggle to focus in school, remember details, or finish tasks.
- Thinking about death or hurting oneself, such as
- Thinking about death might mean imagining what life would be like without you or feeling like you don’t want to exist anymore.
- Hurting oneself (self-harm) can be a way to cope with intense emotional pain, but it’s very dangerous.
- Some people might even think about suicide, which is a medical emergency. If someone talks about these thoughts, it’s very important to reach out for help immediately.
If these feelings last for more than two weeks, it’s important to get help from a professional.
Types of Depression
Did you know there are different kinds of depression? Here are a few examples and brief explanation:
- Major Depressive Disorder: Feeling very down for at least two weeks.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Milder sadness that lasts for two years or more.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression that happens during certain seasons, like winter.
- Postpartum Depression: Depression that some people experience after having a baby.
- Depression with Anxiety: Feeling both sad and worried all the time.
What Causes Depression?
Depression doesn’t have one simple cause. Some factors that can contribute to depression:
- Brain chemicals: Our brain relies on certain chemicals, called neurotransmitters, to help regulate how we feel. When chemical imbalance happen, our moods may be affected as well.
- Family history: If someone in your family has had depression, you might be more likely to have it too. However, having a family history doesn’t guarantee you’ll have depression—it just means you might be more sensitive to certain triggers.
- Stressful events: Big changes, like losing a loved one, moving, or bullying, can trigger depression. Stressful events don’t cause depression on their own, but if combined with other factors, they can make it more likely.
- Health issues: Being sick or in pain for a long time can also affect your mental health. Our physical health and mental health are closely connected. Certain health problems can increase the risk of depression, such as chronic illness or chronic pain.
How is Depression Treated?
The good news is that depression can be treated! Here’s how:
- Talking Therapy (Counseling): Talking to a professional can help you understand your feelings and find ways to feel better.
- Medication: In some cases, doctors might give medicine to help balance brain chemicals.
- Healthy Habits: Eating well, exercising, and sleeping enough can also improve your mood.
- Support: Spending time with family and friends who care about you can make a big difference.
How to Help Someone with Depression
If a friend or family member seems sad or isn’t acting like themselves, here’s how you can help:
- Listen: Let them share their feelings without interrupting or judging.
- Be Kind: Offer words of support and let them know you’re there for them.
- Encourage Them to Get Help: Suggest they talk to a professional.
Getting a Diagnosis At Aloe Mind
If you or someone you know might have depression, it’s important to seek professional help promptly. At Aloe Mind, our registered clinical psychologists offer assessments tailored to address depression. The process begins with a Clinical Intake session to understand your concerns and background. Assessment fees vary based on the tools recommended and will be discussed in the clinical intake session.
You’re Not Alone
Reaching out for help is a brave first step toward feeling better. Remember, there’s always hope, and brighter days are ahead! If a diagnosis is something you’re looking for, go ahead and book clinical intake with our clinical psychologist!
Book a session on our website, or Whatsapp us at +60 17-803 8384!