Feeling down and sad from time to time is a natural human response to life's stressors, however, if these feelings persist sadness can become clinical depression (also known as major depressive disorder). Are you depressed? The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (fifth edition) defines two conditions that support…
We all lack motivation from time to time, and getting up and moving can be difficult and emotionally painful. When we’re depressed, though, we lack the motivation to get going and we carry a boulder-sized mass of feelings of worthlessness and unlovability. When we are feeling this way, we need help…
Although people experience depression differently, there are some general symptoms. Identifying these is an important first step in supporting a loved one with depression. You should look for: Mood changes: Someone with depression will be experiencing a low mood and/or a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities that…
Coping with depression can be overwhelming. Depression can make you feel isolated and lonely. Depression symptoms include irritability, isolation or withdrawal, sleeping too much (or having difficulty sleeping), binge eating or loss of appetite, loss of pleasure in previously pleasurable activities, or lack of motivation and energy. These can make…