I remember going through Depression after my mother died by the time my senior year of high school came around, I began to feel better. However, when I entered college, I started to get wave after wave of depression to happiness back to depression.
I didn’t know that I was experiencing a specific kind of depression known as, Persistent Depressive Disorder which can also be called Dystymia.
According to National Institute of Mental Health, There can be many reasons a person can have depression. Three most common factors are: Personal or family history, having issues in life that are major such as a traumatic event or a major stress period, and having other medical issues that are either physical or can be an effect to medicines.
I have a both personal connection with depression myself and I know family members that have a history of depression. I have had depression episodes such as losing my mother, dog and grandma. I have had major stress issues when I was preparing to continue my education after high school.
There can be many different physical and mental signs that a person can experience when they have depression. For example, according to Anxiety and Depression Association of America, some of the symptoms may includes but are not limited to: “…Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood, feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness and loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities, including sex…”
When I go through a depression time period, I notice that I lack energy; I feel a lack of hope; I lose interest in activities I enjoy doing such as writing and reading and I tend to either under or over sleep.
In 2015, I was in a very deep depressive episode. I had to put my dog Noodles to sleep. I was struggling with my temporary job. And in addition to that, I was providing part time care to my grandma who was battling Alzheimer’s Disease.
My family and friends noticed that I was struggling with my mental health. They kept nagging me to see a therapist. In October of 2015, one afternoon, I checked myself into outpatient therapy.
I was very resistant to my therapy appointments at first. That was because I really didn’t know what being “normal” felt like. Over time my mood started to feel better. My therapist suggested that I use some practical tips to help me when I got depressed, such as listening to music, reaching out to friends, exercising, etc. Now if I am ever in a depressive episode, I know how to cope with it.
Have you ever had problems with depression? Tell me in the comments below.
Disclaimer: If you are having problems with either your physical or mental health please seek professional medical care.
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