What is Depression?

Depression has very different presentations depending on the person and circumstance. The Mayo Clinic defines depression as a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It is estimated that more than 264 million people worldwide experience depression. Despite the high number individuals struggling with depression, the diagnosis still remains veiled in mystery to many. Depression is commonly experienced as a low mood, sadness that may not have an identifiable trigger, loss of motivation, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, low self-esteem, feelings of hopelessness, isolating, loss of energy, fatigue, tearfulness, feeling numb, feelings of increased irritability or anger, and difficulty concentrating. In cases of severe depression, individuals may experience suicidal thoughts or urges to self-harm. Regardless of presentation, it is important that if you are experiencing any of these symptoms that you reach out to a mental health professional for help.