While feeling down from time to time is a normal part of life, when emotions such as apathy and despair take hold and just won't go away, depression may be the cause. More than just the temporary "blues," the lows of major depression make it tough to function and enjoy life like you once did.
With treatment and help, you can feel better. But first, you need to know what depression looks like. Learning how to spot the signs and symptoms of depression is the first step to understanding and overcoming the problem.
What is depression?
We all go through ups and downs in our mood. Sadness is a normal reaction to life’s struggles, setbacks, and disappointments. We’re down in the dumps for a short time, then gradually the painful feelings dissipate and we move on with our lives — often the wiser for the experience. But when the low mood persists, interfering with your ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and have fun, it’s no longer normal. It’s depression.
There’s a vast difference between "feeling depressed" and suffering from clinical depression. The despondency of clinical depression is unrelenting and overwhelming. Some people describe it as "living in a black hole" or having a feeling of impending doom. They can't escape their unhappiness and despair. However, some people with depression don't feel sad at all. Instead, they feel lifeless and empty. In this apathetic state, they are unable to experience pleasure. Even when participating in activities they used to enjoy, they feel as if they're just going through the motions. The signs and symptoms vary from person to person, and they may wax and wane in severity over time.
If you think you or someone you care about has depression, seek professional help right away. Other medical conditions can sometimes look like depression, so it’s important to get a complete evaluation. If depression is diagnosed, your doctor or therapist will help you start on a personalised treatment plan. The most common approach involves therapy, medication, or a combination of the two.
Extracted from Understanding Depression