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Bad Feelings
Some days we all feel anxious and sad. You can also feel anger, guilt, and shame. It’s OKAY.
As normal as a sense of satisfaction, surprise, happiness, and love. To feel something is good because our feelings serve a precise purpose. Emotions motivate us to act in a way that not only helps us survive in the world but also helps us grow.
When we feel something, we do something.
Anxiety is about preparing for future threats and dangers.
But fear is about immediate threats. Fear implies little thought at all. It is automatic because, faced with real danger, it is better to act first and think later.
Sadness is a reaction to a situation that we cannot fix or solve. This incapacity to control or resolve the situation creates an extreme sense of hopelessness or discouragement. Sadness commands us to slow down and retreat. So that we can deal with a loss or think through a failure and learn from it.
So, yes, feelings are good. Emotions help you cope with life’s hard times and learn new ways of reacting if you meet them again.
Emotions are helpful because they allow you to adjust to your situation, at least when your emotional system is flexible.
Depression (what is the difference)
Depression is different from the sadness that we all feel when we experience loss or setbacks in life.
Actually, “depression” is a clinical term for describing intense and persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
Depressive Disorder is one of the most common mental health issues in the United States. One in 10 adults suffered at least one major depressive episode (Hasin et al. 2017).
When you get depressed, your view of the world changes. The sun shines less brightly, the sky clouds over, people seem cold and distant, and the future looks dark. Your mind may cloud over with recurrent thoughts of worthlessness, self-loathing, and even death. You start to complain of difficulty concentrating, remembering, and making decisions.
— Well, why try? I’ll just screw up again –
When you feel sad or depressed, you often have thoughts on events that you cannot fix or control, or a situation you think has no hope.
— I’ll never amount to anything –
Or that you’re inadequate in some way.
Anxiety
When you’re feeling anxious, the thoughts are about future threats or dangers.
These are the what-ifs of your anxious mind:
-What if I fail the test and flunk out of college?”–
–What if I say the wrong thing and she thinks I’m weird?–
Then there are the images of the car wreck or your doctor giving you bad news about your health.
Depressed behaves
Not everyone who’s depressed behaves in the same way. You may speed up or slow down. You may sleep more than ever or complain of a dreadful lack of sleep.
Look, I’m not your physician. And no medical advice here.
But sometimes we don’t understand what’s happening and when things are starting to go wrong. And you have to pull over and check it out. All the items in the quiz are typical of depressed thinking and behavior.
*The components of this test can be caused by other health issues, not only depression. If you have troubling physical problems, you must see your doctor.
Depression Test
#1. My life is full of sorrows
#2. I don’t expect anything
#3. I feel terrible about myself
#4. I have a lot of unexplained crying
#5. I think it impossible to make decisions
#6. I do so many mistakes
#7. My memory’s all messed up
#8. I think I’m of no value
#9. It’s always getting worse
#10. I don’t think anyone would regret me if I died
#11. Things would be better without me
#12. By and large, I’m very pessimistic
#13. I can’t concentrate, and I forget what I’m reading
#14. I can’t find anything interesting and enjoyable
#15. I avoid people more than I always do, including friends and family.
#16. I’m not able to do much, even major projects
#17. I’m not dating
#18. I can’t do my exercise like I used to
#19. I feel lonely and alone
#20. I don’t think anyone else wants to be with me
#21. I didn’t do anything for fun the way I always do
#22. When I try to get out, I don’t have a lot of fun
#23. I am unusually angry with the other
#24. I got no appetite
#25. I haven’t wanted to get physically intimate with anyone
#26. My blood pressure has increased in recent times for no reason
#27. I found it more difficult than usual to speak to my concerns
#28. I have no desire to be with anybody
#29. I feel like I’ve been letting down those who are close to me
#30. I’m moving slower than usual and for no reason
#31. I don’t care for anybody as I should
#32. I feel lots of pain
#33. I’m pretty sure nobody cares or understands me
#34. I often suffer from constipation for no reason
#35. I’m nervous and I can’t stay still.
#36. I’m asleep a lot more than I usually do
#37. I didn’t get as much sleep as I used t
#38. My tummy hurt a lot
#39. I have gained (or lost) over 5 pounds, and I do not understand why
#40. I can’t imagine my life any better in the future
Seeking Professional Help for Depression
While this quiz can provide some insights into your emotions and behaviors, it is important to remember that it is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. If you resonate with many of the symptoms mentioned in the quiz, it is highly recommended to seek help from a qualified mental health professional.
Here are some reasons why professional help is crucial when dealing with depression: Accurate Diagnosis: Only a trained mental health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis of depression. They will consider various factors, including your symptoms, personal history, and overall well-being, to determine if you are experiencing depression or any other mental health condition. Getting an accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan.
- Tailored Treatment: Every individual’s experience with depression is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. A mental health professional can tailor a treatment plan specifically to your needs, considering factors such as the severity of your symptoms, your personal circumstances, and any co-occurring conditions you may have. This personalized approach increases the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes.
- Therapy and Counseling: Mental health professionals offer various therapy options to address depression, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), or psychodynamic therapy. These therapeutic approaches aim to help you explore and understand the underlying causes of your depression, develop coping strategies, challenge negative thoughts and beliefs, and improve overall emotional well-being.
- Medication Management: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage depression symptoms. A mental health professional can assess if medication is necessary, prescribe the appropriate medication, and provide ongoing monitoring to ensure its effectiveness and manage any side effects. They can also make adjustments to the medication regimen as needed.
- Support and Guidance: Dealing with depression can be overwhelming, and having the support of a mental health professional can make a significant difference. They can provide a safe space for you to express your feelings, offer guidance on managing your symptoms, and assist you in developing healthy coping mechanisms. Additionally, they can help you navigate any challenges that may arise during your recovery journey.
Remember, seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Depression is a treatable condition, and with the right support, many people can find relief and regain their quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, reach out to a mental health professional or a helpline in your country to get the assistance you need.
Note: This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment, and personalized recommendations.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about Depression
Question: What is depression?
Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities. It can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, behavior, and overall well-being.
Question: How common is depression?
Depression is a prevalent mental health condition. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression. It can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.
Question: What are the common symptoms of depression?
Common symptoms of depression include persistent sadness, lack of energy, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, irritability, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. However, it’s important to note that symptoms may vary from person to person.
Question: What causes depression?
Depression can arise from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Life events such as loss, trauma, relationship difficulties, or major life transitions can also contribute to the development of depression.
Question: Can depression be treated?
Yes, depression is treatable. Treatment approaches for depression may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Therapy options such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are commonly used. It is essential to seek help from a qualified mental health professional to determine the most suitable treatment approach for your specific needs.
Question: How long does depression treatment take?
The duration of depression treatment varies depending on several factors, including the severity of symptoms, individual response to treatment, and personal circumstances. Some people may see improvements within a few weeks or months, while others may require longer-term treatment and support.
Question: Can I overcome depression without medication?
While medication can be beneficial for managing depression symptoms, it is not the only treatment option. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and support from loved ones can also play a significant role in recovery. It is best to consult with a mental health professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your situation.
Question: Can depression come back after treatment?
Depression can recur, even after successful treatment. It is important to develop coping strategies, practice self-care, and maintain regular follow-up appointments with your mental health professional to monitor your well-being. By actively managing your mental health and seeking support when needed, you can reduce the risk of future episodes.
Question: How can I support someone with depression?
If someone you know is experiencing depression, offer your support and encourage them to seek professional help. Be patient, understanding, and listen without judgment. Encourage them to engage in activities they enjoy and maintain social connections. Remember that supporting someone with depression may also require you to take care of your own well-being.
Question: Where can I find help for depression?
There are several resources available for seeking help with depression. You can start by contacting mental health helplines in your country, speaking to your primary care physician, or reaching out to a mental health professional such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Online platforms, support groups, and community organizations can also provide valuable support and information.
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