Depression 101

If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about clinical depression, join me on the blog in the next few weeks while I dive into this topic! I’ll be covering common symptoms, practical coping skills, and different forms of depression. Today is all about helping you get an overview of clinical depression. Keep reading to understand this common mental health concern better, and connect with me for a personalized approach to managing your depression.

What is clinical depression?

We use the word “depressed” all the time. “It’s so depressing outside today.” “That book will depress you.” “I’m depressed I have to work tonight and miss your party!” We’ve become so comfortable with this word, but what does it actually mean?

The truth is, clinical depression is more than just a bad day or unpleasant feeling. Depression is a mental health disorder, different than occasional sadness. Think of depression as persistent sadness or hopelessness you just can’t shake. This sadness causes people to lose interest in their life and usually zaps them of energy.

How do I know if I have clinical depression?

When working with a client experiencing depression, I look for specific symptoms or changes in how a person operates. I am curious about changes in sleep schedule, eating patterns, and the thoughts inside their head. Depression also impacts someone's ability to engage in their life. This includes their ability to go to work, be social, and care for basic needs.

These changes are usually persistent. It’s more than one night of bad sleep but rather a pattern of sleep troubles. Clinical depression symptoms don’t go away easily; they are difficult to manage and undesirable! So, if you think you might have clinical depression, take an inventory of noticeable changes in your mood and functioning.

What are the common symptoms?

Significant clues for depression include changes in your

feelings like feeling sad, irritable, or checked out

body like loss of appetite, sleep troubles, or general aches and pains

mind like thoughts of suicide, increased negative or critical self-talk, or hopeless thinking

functioning like a decreased ability to work, care for yourself or connect with others

What should I do if I think I have depression?

If you think you might have depression, I encourage you to seek out support. Depression can happen to anyone and is not a personal failing! It’s okay to reach out for help. You can find a licensed counselor by looking at listing sites like Psychology Today or schedule an appointment with your health care provider to get connected to local resources.

It’s important to note that suicide is a very real and serious aspect of depression for some people. If you are feeling suicidal or having a mental health emergency, please don’t wait to get support. You can call the suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Or call 911 if you are concerned about your safety. Depression is treatable, and help and hope are available for you! Connect with me for a free consultation and learn more about getting an individualized plan to treat depression!