Depression is a mood disorder that goes beyond occasional feelings of sadness. People with clinical depression report severe low mood and a loss of interest in activities that they used to enjoy, and these feelings are present most of the day, every day. Depression is also associated with other symptoms, including:
- A noticeable increase or decrease in appetite
- A noticeable increase or decrease in sleep
- Feeling physically slowed down or noticeably agitated and restless
- Fatigue and low energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
- Problems concentrating and difficulty thinking
- Thoughts of suicide
Some people can experience a condition called dysthymia. People with dysthymia also report feelings of low mood and a decreased interest in previously enjoyed activities, however these feelings are less severe than with depression, and they last a longer time. Dysthymia is associated with feelings of low mood for a minimum of two years. Although people with dysthymia can have periods of time where they feel like their “old selves”, this feeling will not last more than two months in a row.
It is normal to occasionally feel down, sad, or blue, especially in times of stress or after a period of loss (e.g., death of a loved one). However, depression and dysthymia are like a constant dark cloud over one’s head, and it can have a strong negative impact on our ability to work or interact with friends and loved ones.
