What Does Depression Feel Like?

If you are in danger of hurting yourself, call or text 988. This is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and it is available 24 hours a day. You can also call 911 for immediate help during an emergency

Understanding Depression

Everyone feels sad or low sometimes because we all go through rough patches. But depression is different because it is a serious mood disorder that affects how you think and behave.

It is more than just a bad day or a case of the blues. For many people, it feels like a heavy weight that stays with them for weeks or even months. Depression is a real medical condition and not a sign of weakness or a character flaw.

Beyond Simple Sadness

When you have depression (also called major depressive disorder), you might focus mostly on the negative side of things and have trouble seeing any good. It can feel like an absence of joy rather than just being sad.

You might lose interest in hobbies you once loved or feel a lack of meaning in your life. Depression is a whole-body experience that affects your physical health as much as your mind. It can make simple daily tasks like eating or working feel like a huge challenge.

How Depression Affects Your Body

In addition to altering your mood, depression can affect your body. You might have the sensation of being slowed down or like you are stuck in a thick fog. Some people are restless and can’t sit still, while others feel like their body has completely shut down.

Common signs include:

• Feeling empty
• Low energy
• Decreased appetite
• Weight changes
• Sleep problems
• Trouble concentrating
• Suicidal thoughts

You might also feel irritable or get angry over small issues. Some people experience physical aches and pains, like headaches or stomach issues that don’t go away with typical treatments.

Depression Looks Different in Everyone

It is important to understand that depression doesn’t look the same for every person. How a friend or family member describes their experience might be very different from what you are feeling, even though depression is the cause in both cases.

For example, men might seem more angry or frustrated, and they often report physical symptoms to their physician first. Women frequently experience sadness and hopelessness. Children might cling to parents or refuse to go to school because they feel sick or worried. Older adults may experience memory problems or personality changes that make them want to stay home.

Depression Is Treatable

The good news is that depression can be treated, and you don’t have to face it alone. Your physician can prescribe the appropriate treatment for your situation.

Most people feel better with therapy or medication. Therapy can teach you new ways to manage negative thoughts and habits. Conversations with a behavioral health professional can happen in person or through virtual care.

You can also take steps to reduce your symptoms on your own. Actions like walking or getting other exercise for 30 minutes a day and sticking to a regular sleep routine can also help boost your mood.

Get Help With Depression From Baptist Health

Depression is a common, treatable condition and nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about. If you experience sadness, depressed mood or other symptoms of depression, talk with your physician.

You can use our provider directory to find a licensed behavioral health care team in your area.