What is Depression?
Depression is not the same as the general feeling of sadness. It is an actual condition that truly impacts how a person functions, thinks, feels, behaves, etc. I won’t get too technical here, because I do not want to take too much of your time. I promise to keep this one short.
Depression is marked by a persistent low mood or loss of interest in things that were once enjoyable. Someone experiencing depression may see changes in their sleep habits, appetite, energy levels, concentration, etc.
Other symptoms may include lack of motivation, irritability, difficulty making decisions, feeling worthless and hopeless, social withdrawal, etc.
Here is a scary fact.
We often can tell when people are depressed, but did you realize that there are people who appear to be fine, but are truly depressed? They do not seem to miss a beat, but really they are not okay. This is what we called functional depression.
People with high functioning depression are able to manage everyday tasks, but they are running on fumes and struggling silently. They are usually just going through the motions while feeling depleted.
Does this resonate with you? If so, you are not alone. You do not have to experience this silently. Speak up and let people know you are struggling.
Other symptoms may include lack of motivation, irritability, difficulty making decisions, feeling worthless and hopeless, social withdrawal, etc.
It takes a lot of physical, psychological, and emotional energy to hide behind the mask. Let the mask down. Release the pain. It is okay to ask for help.
Okay, I’m keeping my promise to keep this short (I tried!)
If you do not listen to anything else I’ve said, please remember this: it is okay to seek help. Also, give yourself the grace you so graciously give to others.
It takes a lot of physical, psychological, and emotional energy to hide behind the mask. Let the mask down. Release the pain. It is okay to ask for help.
You got this.
Sending you all of my love,
Dr. E
