We all have periods in our lives when we feel depressed or hopeless from time to time. But the real problem arises when these periods last longer than normal and prevent us from continuing our daily lives.
If you think you are suffering from the following symptoms, you may have a problem that can be defined under the “Depression Disorders” category according to the DSM-V (Diagnostic Criteria Reference Book). Some of these symptoms are as follows:
For at least two weeks;
1. Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day (eg, feeling sad, empty, or hopeless)
2. A marked decrease in interest or pleasure in all or nearly all activities; nearly every day, most of the day
3. Losing or gaining a lot of weight when not trying to lose weight (e.g., a change of more than 5% of body weight in a month) or decreased or increased cravings almost every day
4. Insomnia or oversleeping nearly every day
5. Psychomotor agitation/inability to feel calm/feeling restless (agitation) or slowing down nearly every day
6. Almost every day, fatigue or lack of inner strength (low energy)
7. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt nearly every day
8. Difficulty thinking or concentrating or indecisiveness nearly every day
9. Having recurrent thoughts of death or suicidal thoughts.
Of course, it would not be right to reach a definite conclusion by looking at these symptoms. The history of each individual should be taken in detail by mental health professionals and the extent of the problem should be examined accordingly. “Cognitive Behavioral Therapy” is one of the treatment methods with proven effectiveness in depression and related disorders. If you are having trouble dealing with these and similar problems, you can make an online appointment and get help via the Doctor’s Site. No matter how challenging the depression may seem, with a little effort it is possible to feel better again. Of course, with the support of an expert…
I wish you well-being.
Psychologist Büşra Atar
