Do I have depression?

By Serena Sinniah, clinical psychologist

We’re starting to have more open conversations about mental health in recent times and this increases awareness of importance of mental health. This prompts a few people to finally seek help for issues they have struggled to overcome for a long time, including depression. There are others who may refrain from reaching out for help because they aren’t sure if the issues they face are serious enough to require therapy or medication, or both. Many assume that they are simply feeling sad. Depression is much more than feeling sad in reaction to specific instances. It is a mental health condition that has become a growing concern and it requires attention.

If you are trying to figure out whether you need to speak to a professional, here are some experiences that may indicate depression:

• Extreme or prolonged sadness, or not feeling much at all
• Feeling on-edge, agitated and irritable
• Feeling hopeless or worthless
• Feeling guilty or ashamed
• Experiencing fatigue
• Having difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Lost interest in things or people you used to enjoy
• Thinking about death or suicide
• Change in your appetite
• Sleep difficulties
• Crying frequently

Some of these experiences are common and many have overcome without therapy. However, when you experience a few of these symptoms without relief and this disrupts your daily life, it may be worth finding a safe space to work with a professional on the issues so that your job, relationships, and other responsibilities are not further impacted.

When you are ready to make an appointment or have an inquiry, please contact me.