Depression can affect each person differently, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe. Often, it impacts multiple areas of life.

Emotional Symptoms:

• Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
• Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-blame
• Increased irritability or frustration

Cognitive Symptoms:

• • Trouble concentrating or making decisions

  • Negative thinking patterns

  • Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide (in severe cases)

Physical Symptoms:

• • Changes in sleep (insomnia or oversleeping)

  • Changes in appetite or weight

  • Fatigue or lack of energy

  • Unexplained aches or pains

Behavioural Symptoms:

• • Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities

  • Reduced productivity

  • Neglecting responsibilities or self-care

If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks and interfere with your day-to-day functioning, it may be time to reach out for help.

Yes — depression is treatable, and with the right support, many people recover and go on to live fulfilling lives. The first step is acknowledging how you feel and seeking help.

Effective Treatments Include:

• • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps address negative thought patterns and develop more balanced, constructive ways of thinking.

  • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and social functioning, which can play a key role in mood.

  • Medication: Antidepressants can help regulate brain chemistry, especially when symptoms are moderate to severe. Medication is often most effective when combined with therapy.

Lifestyle Changes:

• • Regular exercise, a healthy sleep schedule, nutritious eating, reducing alcohol, and building social support can help support recovery.

  • Mindfulness & Self-Compassion Practices: These can improve emotional regulation and reduce self-criticism.

You don’t need to have all the symptoms to be experiencing depression, and you don’t need to wait until things feel unmanageable to get help. If you’re struggling with low mood, loss of interest, or emotional numbness, reaching out to a psychologist is a courageous and important step.