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Depression is a common mental health condition that can significantly impact your life, affecting how you feel, think, and handle everyday activities. While experiencing occasional sadness or low moods is a normal part of life, depression involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in activities you once enjoyed.
Symptoms of depression may include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that used to bring joy
- Changes in appetite or weight, either significant increase or decrease
- Disturbances in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or oversleeping
- Fatigue or loss of energy, even after rest
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt over minor issues
- Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering details
- Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
If you experience several of these symptoms for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, it’s crucial to seek help and support.
Treatment for depression often involves Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alongside other evidence-based approaches like medication or interpersonal therapy. CBT helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies to manage their symptoms. Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and seeking social support, can also play a vital role in managing depression.