What Does Major Depression Feel Like?

“You don’t want to live but you want to die. You don’t want to talk to anyone but you feel very lonely. You wake up in the morning and simply wait for the night to come”

-Unknown

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life. There are three different degrees of severity. Minor, Moderate and Severe. Those who experience depression may suffer from many symptoms such as…

Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or emptiness Irritability, frustration, or restlessness Loss of interest in activities or hobbies that used to be enjoyable Difficulty sleeping, sleep disturbances or sleeping too much Fatigue and lack of energy Difficulty thinking clearly, remembering, concentrating, or making decisions Appetite or weight changes Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or back pain

Treatment for Depression

One can seek professional help with a licensed Mental Health Therapist, Psychiatrist or Psychologist. With a professional, you will learn how to change negative thought patterns through a treatment intervention such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Individuals who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder will be treated using light therapy.

Ways to lessen the effects of symptoms could include daily exercise, meditation, proper sleep, journaling your thoughts and feelings, confiding in family and friends. Taking prescribed medication may also be useful, in relieving symptoms and altering mood.

Don’t be ashamed to seek treatment. Remember it’s not a race to a finish line, it’s a journey. There will be both good and bad days but overall with treatment and self-care, one can live a fulfilled life of happiness.

Ranika Martin, MSW, LGSW, CBT+