Depression is a debilitating condition. It brings feelings  of utter hopelessness and helplessness. When it gets to its lowest, you have little motivation, depression has attacked your self-esteem. You can find no enjoyment from life, it seems that there is no point in doing anything. On top of this you might be angry and frustrated, or feel guilt and shame for your sense of worthlessness. 

Depression is a downward spiral pulling the suffering person further and further in.

What is the difference between depression and clinical depression?

We all feel sad from time to time. This is a perfectly normal response to the negative events we experience in our lives. There are times when we will all suffer loss and rejection. For most of us the symptoms of depression subside as the mood runs its course, and we get more distant from the event. For others this is not the case. For some it seems to them that there will never be any let up.

Ultimately a depressed mood spirals us into a complete loss of pleasure, abject feelings of guilt and low self-worth, disturbed sleep, loss of appetite, low energy, and poor concentration.

Depression is the second-most common mental health condition. Many people experience depression, research shows that between 8-12% the general population are affected at any one time (office of national statistics). The word ‘depression’ can be used to describe a wide range of symptoms. 

There are different types of clinical depression, and symptoms vary from person to person. However the general indicators of depression are; feeling low, having lack of interest or pleasure in most things, low motivation. 

Having these feelings consistently for most of the day and over an extended period of time takes its toll on people’s mental health. Feeling disinterested and withdrawing from life are signs that the problems are escalating.

Physical symptoms

• moving or speaking more slowly than usual
• changes in appetite or weight 
• unexplained aches and pains
• lack of energy
• low sex drive 
• disturbed sleep – changes to your normal sleeping pattern

Social symptoms

• avoiding contact with friends 
• taking part in fewer social activities
• neglecting your hobbies and interests
• having difficulties in your home, work or family life

Severity of depression

• mild depression – has some impact on your daily life
• moderate depression – has a significant impact on your daily life
• severe depression – makes it almost impossible to get through daily life; 
• a few people with severe depression may have psychotic symptoms