The tumultuous journey through your 20s can often be a rollercoaster of emotions. Feeling down from time to time is perfectly normal, but what happens when it starts to feel like more than just a bad day? That’s where the line between feeling sad and depression gets blurred. In this blog, we’ll delve into the subtle signs of depression and help you understand how it differs from the occasional sadness.
Insomnia or Trouble falling asleep
Picture this: you’re scrolling through your phone at 2 a.m., tired but can’t fall asleep.
You might think it’s just stress or too much caffeine, but insomnia can be a sign of depression. Your racing thoughts are keeping you up at night, making it tough to start the day fresh.
Feeling sad might keep you up occasionally, but depression takes it to another level. It’s not just one sleepless night; it’s an ongoing struggle where your racing thoughts dominate your nights, leaving you wit low energy and fatigue.
Avoiding or neglecting daily tasks
Skipping showers? Not wanting to get out of bed? Even though you’re aware of all the tasks that you are neglecting, it can feel like you are stuck or paralyzed. Simple tasks like brushing your teeth or eating can become hard to do and feel like a burden.
Making up excuses to call out
This may be calling out of work or canceling plans with friend. You might notice that canceling is becoming a pattern.
Substance abuse
Substance abuse is very common with people that suffer from depression. Drinking or smoking excessively can lead to neglecting other responsibilities. If drugs or drinking are taking over your life, then there might be a bigger underlying problem. For example, if you are canceling plans with friends and family that you used to enjoy spending time with because you’d rather be smoking or drinking alone, then it might be time to refocus.
Agitation
Exhausted
Procrastination
- Avoiding or Neglecting Daily Tasks:
Sadness can momentarily affect your motivation, but depression can lead to a consistent neglect of basic self-care tasks. These mundane chores can start feeling like insurmountable burdens, making you wonder how something so simple became so challenging. - Making Up Excuses to Call Out:
Feeling sad can make you want some alone time, but depression can lead to a pattern of canceling plans or calling out of work. It’s not just about needing space; it’s about wanting to retreat from your social and professional obligations. - Substance Abuse:
Drinking or smoking excessively might be a way to cope with sadness, but when depression sets in, these substances can become your escape from the relentless emotional pain. If they’re taking over your life and causing you to withdraw from social interactions, it’s a glaring sign that depression might be at the helm. - Agitation:
Feeling irritable and on edge occasionally is normal, but in depression, this agitation becomes a persistent companion. Everyday stressors can feel disproportionately overwhelming, and even small issues can trigger intense reactions. - Exhaustion:
Sadness might make you tired, but depression leaves you feeling perpetually drained, both mentally and physically. You wake up feeling exhausted, no matter how much sleep you’ve had, and the world can seem like a daunting place. - Procrastination:
Procrastination due to sadness is temporary and typically linked to specific circumstances. With depression, it becomes a chronic issue, making it hard to initiate tasks, even when they are essential.
Understanding the Difference:
Depression is more than just feeling sad. It’s an enduring emotional state characterized by a persistent low mood, an overwhelming sense of hopelessness, and a loss of interest in things you once enjoyed. It’s not something you can simply “snap out of” or “cheer up” from. If these subtle signs persist and interfere with your daily life, they may indicate depression.
What to Do When Feeling Depressed:
If you recognize these signs in your life, the first step is acknowledging that you might be dealing with depression. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional to discuss your feelings and experiences. You don’t have to navigate this challenging terrain on your own.
It’s crucial to prioritize self-care, which includes maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. Engage in activities that once brought you joy, even if they don’t seem appealing right now. Additionally, practicing mindfulness techniques and relaxation exercises can help alleviate some of the emotional weight you’re carrying.
Remember that seeking professional help, such as therapy or medication, can be a game-changer in managing depression. You don’t have to suffer in silence; there is a path to recovery and well-being. Your 20s should be a time for growth and exploration, and addressing your mental health is an essential part of that journey.