Am I Depressed?
Roman poet Horace (born around 65 B.C.) referred to depression as the 'black dog.' This metaphor illustrates how depression can feel like a dog is following you around, like a melancholy shadow. The 'black dog' metaphor has been widely embraced by contemporary writers and mental health professionals alike, as it vividly captures the persistent and looming nature of depression.
Depression is a pervasive mental health condition that 1 in 7 Australians will experience during their lifetime, according to the Black Dog Institute. The etymology of the word 'depression' comes from the Latin verb 'deprimere,' which means 'to press down.' Accordingly, depression can feel like an external force is pressing down upon your spirit, energy, motivation, and lust for life. If you begin to notice that life doesn't feel as exciting as it once did, or you suddenly struggle to get out of bed in the morning, it could be a sign that the black dog has invited itself into your life.
Below are some common symptoms of depression:
Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness.
Irritability or outbursts of anger.
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy and social withdrawal.
Difficulty concentrating, brain fog, or forgetfulness.
Changes in appetite; under-eating and overeating may be associated with depression.
Changes in sleep patterns; under-sleeping, oversleeping, and trouble maintaining sleep may indicate depression.
Feeling fatigued, even after getting sufficient sleep.
Feeling as though life isn’t worth living.
Depression can also influence a range of physical symptoms, such as headaches, muscular aches, digestive issues, and weight loss or weight gain.
Many of these symptoms can go unnoticed as they may slowly develop over time. If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or in those you know, it may be prudent to seek professional help. Depression is a treatable condition, and with the right support, people can return to living fulfilling lives.