Depression is a mental illness that isn't something you can "snap out of."
It rarely gets better without treatment and may get worse.
The good news is that most people with depression respond well to medications, psychotherapy or both. Other options that can be helpful include electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), brain stimulation therapies, and psychoeducation.
Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
Feeling hopeless or worthless is one of the most common feelings associated with depression. These negative feelings often persist for an extended period of time and interfere with a person’s ability to function normally.
In some cases, these feelings are caused by a traumatic event or a significant loss of self-esteem. People who grew up with a perfectionist parent or who have suffered from childhood abuse, maltreatment or neglect are more likely to experience feelings of worthlessness than those who did not grow up in these conditions.
Fortunately, there are a number of ways to improve your self-worth and manage the feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness that come with depression. One of the most helpful is to focus on activities that make you feel a sense of meaning or purpose. Some people find that walking in nature or doing prosocial activities such as volunteering can help them to build their self-worth.
Lack of interest in activities you used to enjoy
Losing interest in activities that used to give you pleasure can be a normal part of life, but it can also be a symptom of depression. It’s important to take action and seek help if this feeling persists or interferes with your day-to-day life.
It can be hard to understand why you aren’t interested in some of the things that used to give you pleasure. It may be due to work or relationship issues, or you might be in a rut.
Getting out and trying new things can help lift your mood. Whether you go for a walk, try a new hobby or take the kids to the park, being active can make you feel better and give you something to look forward to.
Difficulties sleeping or concentrating
Depression often interferes with sleep, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. It also causes you to wake up frequently during the night or too early in the morning, according to MedlinePlus.
When you have depression, it can be hard to concentrate during the day. Having difficulty concentrating can be one of the most frustrating symptoms of depression, because it can interfere with your ability to function and complete your daily responsibilities.
If you have trouble sleeping or concentrating because of depression, see a mental health professional to address the issue. They can help you develop healthy habits and coping skills to improve your sleep and relieve depression symptoms. They may also suggest medication to treat your depression if needed.
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
Depression is often associated with feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and these feelings can be difficult to manage.
If you're feeling insecure and are unsure about your ability to deal with your symptoms, it may be time to seek professional help. These feelings can cause significant distress and interfere with your everyday life.
In some cases, depression can lead to feelings of self-loathing and suicide. This is because these feelings can amplify other negative thoughts and behaviors, such as impulsivity or suicidal ideation.
If you're experiencing feelings of guilt or worthlessness, consider taking some small, actionable steps toward self-care. Keeping a gratitude journal, for example, can be a great way to start thinking about all the things you have that are positive in your life.
Suicidal thoughts
Suicidal thoughts are a common and serious part of depression. Whether you are thinking about suicide or someone you know is, learning to identify warning signs of suicide can help you get the treatment you need and save a life.
Depression is a treatable health condition that changes the chemicals in your brain. By getting treatment and avoiding things that trigger suicidal thoughts, you can live a more normal, happy life.
