What Is Clinical Depression?
Clinical Depression is more than feeling sad. If you are clinically depressed, you may have a depressed mood most of the day, and a loss of interest in normal activities and relationships. You may have symptoms that are present every day for at least 2 weeks. In addition, according to the DSM-5 (a manual used to diagnose mental health conditions) you may have these other symptoms:
- Fatigue or loss of energy almost every day
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt almost every day
- Impaired concentration, indecisiveness
- Insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping) almost every day
- Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in almost all activities nearly every day (called anhedonia, this symptom can be indicated by reports from significant others)
- Restlessness or feeling slowed down
- Recurring thoughts of death or suicide
- Significant weight loss or gain (a change of more than 5% of body weight in a month)
Depression is real and painful, but with help, it can get better. If you suffer from depression or know someone who does, working with a therapist is a good start to overcoming your depression. I am available to help. Contact me today to book a session for Depression Counseling.
