When most people imagine depression, they may imagine crying in a dark room all day. However, depression can quietly exist behind a constant smile, a full calendar, and the comfort of always being around others.
Instead of a feeling, depression is more like a full-body, full-mind experience that changes how the world feels and how you move through it.
Here is what depression is really like.
Emotional Numbness
Many people who have depression may not even feel sad. In fact, they often feel nothing at all. The things that once brought them excitement, joy, or even fear may feel completely flat.
Hopelessness
Depression is more than just feeling down. It is feeling utter despair and assuming that things will never improve, even when logic says they might.
Guilt and Self-Blame
Depression can make one particularly hard on oneself. Small mistakes are enormous to them, and they may feel like their very existence is a burden on those around them.
Lack of Motivation
Some people who are struggling with depression may misinterpret their feelings as laziness. Basic tasks like getting out of bed or eating a meal may seem impossible. However, even when they want to partake in certain tasks, depression makes it extremely difficult to act on them.
Physical Sensations
Symptoms of depression are not limited to just emotional experiences. It can also look like:
- Exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest
- Changes in appetite
- Unexplained aches or discomfort
- A feeling of being weighed down
What’s Important to Know
Depression can exist in people who never shed a tear. It can affect anyone at any stage of life. If you are experiencing any of these feelings, or they begin to impact your quality of life, it is crucial to seek help. Our licensed therapists at Suffolk Counseling Services are here to listen. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
