The symptoms of depression
Describe the symptoms of depression and explain how depression differs from feelings of sadness or describe the symptoms of clinical anxiety and explain how clinical anxiety differs from feelings of worry.
Research at least two strategies for combating symptoms of depression or anxiety. Utilize only peer-reviewed journals for your research. Share how your chosen strategies could also be utilized as preventative or protective strategies to implement the next time you encounter worry or sadness.
Sample Solution
Depression is a serious mental health disorder that can manifest itself in a variety of ways; it often goes beyond simply feeling sad and can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to function normally. Common symptoms associated with depression include changes in appetite/weight, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, recurrent thoughts of death/suicide, loss of interest and pleasure in activities once found enjoyable (American Psychiatric Association 2020). These symptoms are usually present for two weeks or more before an official diagnosis can be made.
Though the symptoms of depression overlap with those experienced during times of sadness, there are important differences between the two states. Sadness is generally experienced as a reaction to unpleasant events such as personal losses or disappointments; these emotions tend to be short-lived (typically lasting up to several days) and individuals may still be able to find solace through meaningful activities (Fried Eich & Joiner 2018). In contrast, depression lasts considerably longer than normal feelings of sadness and interferes with one’s ability to participate in daily life functions such as attending work/school or maintaining interpersonal relationships (American Psychiatric Association 2020). The general outlook on life when suffering from depression tends towards pessimism which only further exacerbates its effects.
Another key difference between sadness and depression lies within the cognitive level: While both may involve rumination about negative topics related to self-worth etc., depressive thinking styles tend focus more heavily on permanence rather than changeability whereas sadness expresses these evaluations but also allows for some degree flexibility depending upon circumstances (Thompson et al., 2019). This difference can make all the difference when it comes time for individuals struggling with depression seek out therapy as they begin their journey back towards mental wellness.
