Depression is more than just being sad or having a bad day. It is a serious mental health condition that changes a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is one of the main causes of disability worldwide, impacting more than 280 million people. (WHO Depression Facesheet)
What Depression Can Cause?
Depression impacts not just the mood, but also your body and daily activities.
Common emotional and behavioral symptoms include:
- Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Losing interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed.
- Difficulty in focusing, remembering, or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or isolation
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Physical symptoms can also occur, such as:
- Changes in Appetite (weight gain/loss)
- Sleeping problems (insomnia or oversleeping)
- Fatigue or low energy
- Headache, stomachache, and muscle pain.
- Dizziness, trembling, or the sensation that the earth is shaking (even if there is no external cause)
Warning Signs: When to See a Doctor
Seek professional help if you notice:
- Feeling depressed most of the time, almost every day, for over two weeks
- Serious changes in sleep, hunger, or energy levels.
- Difficulty performing at work, school, or in relationships
- Thoughts of self-harm, death, or suicide
- Physical symptoms that continue without a clear medical reason.
Hypothetical case
A 28-year-old person began experiencing weird sensations, such as feeling the ground tremble beneath their feet, even though no earthquake had happened. They also suffered from constant sadness, low energy, and trouble concentrating. After contacting a doctor, they were diagnosed with major depressive disorder and treated with psychotherapy and medication, which resulted in major improvements.
(Note: This is a fictional case created to show common depression symptoms. It doesn’t describe an actual person.)
Where to Get Help (US & International)
For people in the USA
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 (available 24/7 for crisis support)
SAMHSA Treatment Locator: Find mental health providers at findtreatment.samhsa.gov
Psychology Today: Search for therapists near you: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists
-Major Hospitals or Mental Health Services-
Mayo Clinic Psychiatry and Psychology Services (Mayo Clinic Psychiatry)
Johns Hopkins Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (Johns Hopkins Psychiatry)
For people outside the USA
World Health Organization (WHO) Mental Health Resources: WHO Mental Health Support
Befrienders Worldwide: Find emotional support services near you: www.befrienders.org
Local hospital websites: Many hospitals globally have online booking for mental health checkups.
Conclusion:
Depression is a medical illness, not a weakness.
Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve quality of life.
If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, do not hesitate to seek professional help.
Your mental health matters.
Ready to learn more and take the first step towards better mental health? Head over to InfoCandle for expert advice and resources.
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