Depression is different to feeling sad, having a tough day, or experiencing grief and loss. Depression is a debilitating condition, involving a very low mood for a period of at least two weeks.
There is not always an obvious cause or reason for depression. Its development is likely due to several factors, including stressful life events, a family history of depression or a lack of social support.
Depression can make someone feel like everything is more difficult to do and nothing is worthwhile. For some people, a very depressed mood can also involve thoughts of harming or ending their life by suicide.
Common symptoms of depression
- Feeling low for days on end
- Feeling emotionally flat or numb
- Not being able to enjoy your usual activities
- Cannot be bothered staying in touch with friends and family
- Struggling to get out of bed OR struggling to sleep
- Feeling much more hungry than usual OR not hungry at all
- Deflated and out of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thinking more negatively – ‘What’s the point’, ‘I can’t cope’, ‘I’m a failure’
- Recurring thoughts about death, suicide, or harming yourself
Coping and support
Whilst depression can make it hard to stay active, it can be really helpful to get back out there and reengage with the things you used to enjoy.
Some helpful tips for planning out your day include:
- Intentionally schedule in activities that might make you feel good or proud of an accomplishment (even when you feel like they won’t)
- Starting these activities might not be easy at first, but by focusing on small tasks and working up you can build momentum. Don’t wait for the motivation to come – once you’ve done a small amount of activity you will feel motivated to do it again. If you’re still finding these tasks too effortful, try breaking them down a little more
- Find some time to connect with friends and family. Their support and encouragement may help you find some extra motivation to keep active
People who are depressed often feel the urge to withdraw and hide away. It can also be particularly hard for people who are used to being in a ‘helper’ role to admit to needing help. If this is you, remember there are people out there that want to be there for you to provide support. For some, this may be family members and close friends, and for others it may be local health professionals and community support systems. You can directly contact one of our many support services at Ambulance Victoria.
For further information on depression, check out Beyond Blue and Black Dog Institute.