Sure, we all feel sad every once in a while. But for one in 14 American adults, it’s not a matter of a dark mood, it’s clinical depression and it’s crucial to get treatment. Well, how do we know if what we’re going through is just a case of the passing blues, or if you, or a loved one, need medical attention? According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), there are signs and symptoms to help you tell the difference. Here are their guidelines:
PERSISTENT SAD, ANXIOUS OR EMPTY MOOD: Anxiety often accompanies depression. It may be intense, as though you’re in great and imminent danger. These feelings may persist over a period of time for no apparent reason.
A SENSE OF HOPELESSNESS OR PESSIMISSIM: It may feel as if there is no light at the end of the tunnel and you may begin to lose all hope for things improving or for life getting any better.
DECREASED ENERGY: Your thinking, reactions, even movements may be slowed down. It can be further complicated by a fatigue that makes you feel overwhelming tired all the time.
FEELINGS OF GUILT, WORTHLESSNESS AND HELPLESSNESS: You blame yourself for not being happier or more productive.
LOSS OF INTEREST OR PLEASURE IN ACTIVITIES: Things that would bring you pleasure before are now just one more burden to deal with.
