We all have points in our lives where our spirits are low or we’re sad over a loss, life-changing event, or personal struggle. Regardless of the situation, it’s crucial that we acknowledge our emotions, process our feelings, and truly embrace the fact that our emotions and feelings are perfectly normal reactions to life events. With that in mind, if the sadness you’re experiencing is severe and persists for an extended period of time, such as weeks or months, then what you’re experiencing may be more than pure sadness. It could be clinical depression, which is treatable with a professional’s appropriate guidance and care.
Signs of Clinical Depression
Clinical depression goes beyond intense sadness. With clinical depression, you experience feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, and it disrupts your daily routine. Activities that used to be a source of happiness or pleasure may no longer be interesting to you.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, a person could be clinically depressed when they exhibit at least five of the following symptoms for a duration of 2 weeks or more:
- Daily depressed mood
- Impaired cognitive ability
- Daily fatigue or energy loss
- Excessive sleep or lack of sleep
- Sense of worthlessness or guilt
- Disinterest in daily activities
- Dramatic weight loss or gain
- Thoughts of suicide
An individual who is clinically depressed usually experiences symptoms that last throughout the day on a nearly daily basis. While symptoms of clinical depression range in intensity and duration, they usually prevent people from being productive or pursuing things that previously brought them joy.
What’s often overlooked is the chemical changes that happen to your body as a result of clinical depression. Some of the many symptoms include appetite changes, hair loss, joint pain, gastrointestinal issues, and back pain. Due to the chemical imbalance in your body, sometimes the speed of your speech and physical movements can be affected as well. These physical disorders often lead people to seek medical treatment. However, if the primary cause – clinical depression – is not addressed, these secondary physical symptoms often persist. The solution to recovery and relief from physical distress usually requires talk therapy and possibly medication from a clinical expert.
It May Be Time to Seek Guidance From a Specialist
When a person’s physical and emotional symptoms last for more than a couple of weeks, it is highly recommended that they seek a specialist. At first, many people will speak with their primary physician to address their physical symptoms, which is a smart move. When recurring treatment is necessary, an assessment by a certified mental health professional is needed to find the root cause of your symptoms, as well as a unique treatment plan to resolve and address the underlying problems.
If you have experienced a system of clinical depression and would like the assessment by a specialist, I’m available to provide an assessment and a treatment plan for you. As a Psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the treatment of psychiatric disorders including depression. Click here to schedule a free consultation. I look forward to working with you.