More and more Millennials are reported to be experiencing higher levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and more.
Personally, at times the feeling of loneliness hits me. We’re so connected all of the time, but yet, so unconnected when we don’t share our truths of what we are facing every day.
That feeling then turns into sadness and then for days, an emotional roller-coaster. I sit and think, should I really be feeling this way?
What is really making me feel like this?
Nowadays, the term “depression” is used vaguely to define any sort of behavior that makes us sad. We tend to relate depression with anything that makes us suffer… in a way that we confuse the criteria of such term and in some cases, it leads us to use anti-depressants when there are many other ways to cope or really figure out if what you’re going through is categorized as depression.
If you have been experiencing any of the following signs and symptoms for at least 2 weeks, then you may be suffering from depression.
The following are some symptoms of depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health:
· Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
· Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
· Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
· Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
· Decreased energy, fatigue, being “slowed down”
· Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
· Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
· Appetite and/or weight changes
· Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts
· Restlessness, irritability
· Persistent physical symptoms
If you find that some of these symptoms apply to you, remember that auto medication and auto diagnosis will not solve anything. Seek professional help or ask a doctor to guide you.
Try not to isolate yourself, even if it feels like that is the solution to coping with what you’re going through. It’s important to try your best to continue doing the things you love and being around people that can help you.
Remember, you are not alone and there is always a solution.