How to Assess Your Mood To Know Whether You’re Living With Depression

How do I know if I have some form of depression?

Diagnosis of depression is something that should be done by a trained mental health professional. However, there are some signs and symptoms that may indicate that it is time to seek out additional support. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, common signs and symptoms of depression include:

1. Persistent sadness or low mood: Feeling sad, hopeless, or having a persistently low mood that lasts for most of the day, nearly every day.
2. Loss of interest or pleasure: Losing interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable, including hobbies, socializing, or work-related tasks.
3. Changes in sleep patterns: Significant changes in sleep, such as insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping).
4. Changes in appetite or weight: Significant changes in appetite or weight, either an increase (overeating) or a decrease (loss of appetite).
5. Fatigue or lack of energy: Feeling tired, lacking energy, and experiencing a sense of physical and mental exhaustion.
6. Difficulty concentrating: Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or experiencing memory problems.
7. Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Persistent feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or a sense of self-blame, even when there is no rational reason for these feelings.
8. Agitation or slowed movement: Restlessness, irritability, or a noticeable slowing down of physical and mental processes.
9. Physical symptoms: Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or digestive issues, that do not respond to treatment.
10. Social withdrawal: Withdrawing from friends, family members, and social activities, and preferring isolation.

What counts as feeling depressed?

Feeling depressed is more than just experiencing occasional sadness or low moods; it involves persistent and pervasive feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. Depression is a mental health condition characterized by a cluster of symptoms that significantly affect a person's daily functioning and well-being. 

What are the 4 main causes of depression?

Depression is a complex mental health condition with multiple contributing factors. It often results from a combination of biological, genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. While it's challenging to pinpoint specific causes for each individual, researchers generally consider the following four categories when exploring the origins of depression:

Biological Factors:

• Brain chemistry: Changes in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, are often associated with depression. These chemicals play a crucial role in controlling mood, and imbalances can contribute to depressive symptoms.
• Genetics: Family history can be a significant factor in depression. Individuals with a family history of depression may be more predisposed to developing the condition themselves, suggesting a genetic component.
• Age: Young people may experience depression during life transitions such as moving schools, transitioning to the working world, or starting life on their own. While older individuals may experience depression due to children moving out, or growing apart from friends. Different ages have different challenges that may cause depression. 

Psychological factors:

• Trauma and stressful life events: Experiencing trauma, abuse, or significant life stressors can increase the risk of developing depression. Traumatic experiences may have long-lasting effects on mental health.
• Personality Factors: Certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem, pessimism, or a tendency to ruminate on negative thoughts, may contribute to the development or persistence of depression.

Environmental factors:

• Life changes and loss: Major life changes, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, or other significant losses, can trigger depressive episodes.
• Chronic illness: Dealing with a chronic medical condition can impact mental health and contribute to depression.

Social and Interpersonal Factors:

• Social isolation: Lack of social support or feelings of isolation can contribute to depression. Positive social connections and a strong support system are important for mental well-being.
• Relationship issues: Strained or unhealthy relationships, whether with family, friends, or romantic partners, can contribute to depressive symptoms.

Is it hard to identify depression?

Identifying depression can be challenging for several reasons. The symptoms of depression can vary widely among individuals, and they may not always be immediately apparent. Additionally, some people may downplay or hide their symptoms, and others may not recognize that what they are experiencing is indicative of depression. Here are some reasons why it can be difficult to identify depression:

• Variability in symptoms: Depression can manifest differently in different individuals. While some people may experience classic symptoms such as persistent sadness and lack of interest, others may primarily exhibit physical symptoms, irritability, or changes in behavior.
• Stigma and denial: There is still stigma associated with mental health conditions, and individuals may be hesitant to acknowledge or discuss their symptoms due to fear of judgment or societal attitudes. 
• Masking symptoms: Some individuals are skilled at masking their symptoms, especially in social or professional settings. They may put on a facade to appear "normal" while struggling internally.
• Overlap with other conditions: Depression often coexists with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders or substance use. The overlapping symptoms can complicate the identification of depression.
• Physical symptoms: Depression can manifest with physical symptoms, such as changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and unexplained pain. People may seek treatment or medical help for these symptoms without recognizing the underlying mental health component.
• Lack of awareness: Some individuals may not be aware that what they are experiencing is depression. They might attribute their feelings to stress, a difficult life situation, or personal shortcomings.

What do depressed people usually say?

People experiencing depression may express their feelings and thoughts in various ways, and there is no one-size-fits-all description of what depressed individuals usually say. However, some common themes and expressions may be observed in their language. It's important to note that individuals with depression can have diverse experiences, and not everyone will express themselves in the same manner. Here are some phrases or expressions that individuals with depression might use:

Expressions of hopelessness:

• "What's the point?"
• "Nothing will ever get better."
• "I don't see a way out."

Self-critical statements:

• "I'm a burden to everyone."
• "I'm a failure."
• "I can't do anything right."

Feelings of emptiness:

• "I feel numb inside."
• "There's nothing inside me anymore."
• "I don't feel anything."

Statements of fatigue or lack of energy:

• "I'm so tired all the time."
• "I don't have the energy for anything."
• "It takes everything I have just to get through the day."

Social withdrawal:

• "I just want to be alone."
• "I don't want to see anyone."
• "I'm better off by myself."

Expressions of loneliness:

• "No one understands me."
• "I feel so alone."
• "I don't have anyone to talk to."

What are signs of anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal human emotion, but when it becomes excessive, prolonged, or interferes with daily functioning, it may be indicative of an anxiety disorder. Signs of anxiety can manifest in various ways, and it's important to note that individuals may experience anxiety differently. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, some common signs and symptoms associated with anxiety include:

• Excessive worry: Persistent and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, such as work, health, family, or finances.
• Restlessness: Feeling on edge or restless, having difficulty sitting still, and being unable to relax.
• Fatigue: Feeling easily tired, even without engaging in physically or mentally demanding activities.
• Muscle tension: Physical symptoms such as muscle tension, stiffness, or headaches.
• Irritability: Becoming easily irritated or having a low tolerance for frustration.
• Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless sleep. Some individuals may also have nightmares.
• Difficulty concentrating: Finding it challenging to focus on tasks or having a racing mind that jumps from one thought to another.
• Physical symptoms: Experiencing various physical symptoms, such as trembling, sweating, dizziness, shortness of breath, or a racing heart (palpitations).
• Avoidance: Avoiding situations or places that trigger anxiety, which can lead to social isolation or impairment in daily functioning.
• Self-harm: Individuals experiencing anxiety may engage in nonsuicidal self-injury, or self-harm. 

What are the 3 primary types of depression?

While there are several types of depression, three primary types are commonly recognized:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD): Major Depressive Disorder, often referred to as clinical depression, is characterized by persistent and intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. To be diagnosed with MDD, a person must experience these severe depression symptoms for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. Other symptoms may include changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, strong feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.
• Persistent depressive disorder (Dysthymia): Persistent Depressive Disorder, or dysthymia, involves chronic, long-term depressive symptoms that last for at least two years in adults (or one year in children and adolescents). While the symptoms of dysthymia may not be as severe as those of major depression, they are persistent and can significantly impact daily functioning. Individuals with dysthymia may experience changes in appetite, sleep problems, low energy, low self-esteem, difficulty making decisions, and a sense of hopelessness.
• Bipolar disorder (formerly Manic-Depressive Illness): Bipolar Disorder involves mood swings that cycle between episodes of depression and mania (or hypomania). In depressive episodes, individuals experience symptoms similar to those of major depressive disorder. Manic episodes are characterized by elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, reduced need for sleep, impulsivity, and potentially risky behavior. Bipolar Disorder is categorized into different types based on the severity and pattern of mood episodes, such as Bipolar I Disorder and Bipolar II Disorder.

For all depressive disorders, treatment is available. Depression treatment may involve making lifestyle changes and seeking emotional support through friends or family. It may also be beneficial to seek out a mental health professional who may provide you with talk therapy, antidepressant medication, or additional resources for managing depression. 

What is the biggest cause of depression?

​​Depression is a complex mental health condition, and its causes are often multifaceted, involving a combination of biological, genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. It's challenging to pinpoint a single "biggest cause" of depression, as individuals may experience depression for different reasons. However, some common contributing factors include:

• Neurotransmitter Imbalances
• Genetics
• Personality Traits
• Negative Cognitive Patterns
• Stressful Life Events
• Childhood Adversity
• Relationship Issues
• Medical Conditions

How does depression affect a woman's body?

Depression can affect various aspects of a woman's body, both mentally and physically. The mind and body are interconnected, and the symptoms of depression often manifest in both psychological and physical ways. It's important to note that the impact of depression can vary among individuals, and not everyone will experience the same symptoms. Here are some ways depression can affect a woman's body:

• Sleep disturbances
• Appetite and weight changes
• Fatigue and lack of energy
• Pain and aches
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Menstrual irregularities
• Changes in libido
• Weakened immune system

What are the two biggest reasons for depression?

It's important to understand that depression is a complex and multifaceted mental health condition, and there isn't a simple answer to identify the two biggest reasons for depression. Depression typically results from a combination of various factors, and what may contribute significantly to one person's depression might be different for another. However, two broad categories often considered are biological factors and psychosocial factors:

Biological factors:

• Neurotransmitter imbalances: Changes in the levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, are associated with depression. Imbalances in these neurotransmitters can impact mood control.
• Genetics: There is evidence that genetic factors play a role in the risk of developing depression. A family history of depression can increase an individual's susceptibility.
• Brain structure and function: Alterations in the structure and function of certain brain regions involved in mood control have been observed in individuals with depression.

Psychosocial Factors:

• Life stressors: Exposure to significant stressors, such as trauma, loss, abuse, or major life changes, can increase the risk of developing depression. Chronic stress can contribute to the onset or exacerbation of depressive symptoms.
• Psychological factors: Personality traits, cognitive patterns, and thought processes can influence the development of depression. For example, individuals with a tendency to ruminate on negative thoughts or have low self-esteem may be more vulnerable.
• Social isolation: Lack of social support and feelings of loneliness or social isolation can contribute to depression. Positive social connections and support are crucial for mental well-being.