Depression feels like a persistent and overwhelming low mood or sadness that lasts for weeks or months, severely affecting daily life, work, social interactions, and family relationships
. People with depression often experience a deep sense of hopelessness and helplessness, with little to no pleasure or joy from activities they once enjoyed
. Common psychological experiences include:
- Continuous sadness or emptiness
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and low self-esteem
- Irritability and intolerance towards others
- Lack of motivation and interest in life
- Difficulty making decisions and concentrating
- Anxiety, worry, and sometimes suicidal thoughts
Physically, depression can manifest as:
- Fatigue and low energy, making even simple tasks exhausting
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, early waking, or excessive sleeping without feeling rested
- Changes in appetite, either loss of appetite or increased cravings, sometimes leading to weight changes
- Unexplained aches, headaches, or stomach problems
Many describe depression as feeling like a heavy burden or a gray cloud over the world, making everything feel strenuous and meaningless. Everyday activities like getting out of bed, showering, or shopping can seem insurmountable
. Emotional numbness or emptiness is also common, where people may not feel happy, sad, or angry, but rather disconnected from their emotions
. In summary, depression is more than just feeling sad; it is a complex condition that affects mood, thoughts, physical health, and behavior, often making life feel overwhelmingly difficult and hopeless
