10 things to know about depression: Loss of interest, pleasure, and concentration
Depression is more than just feeling blue — it commonly involves a profound disinterest in activities that were once pleasurable, a loss of joy in many aspects of life, and problems concentrating or making decisions.
What is depression? A group of conditions associated with persistent lowering of a person’s mood is known as depression. The risk of developing depression in a lifetime is about eight to twelve percent in males and about twenty to twenty six percent in females. There are some characteristic features seen in this condition. (Image: Canva)
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Loss of interest and sadness One of the most important features of depression is the sadness of mood or a loss of interest in almost all activities, especially in those that were previously enjoyable. This loss of pleasure in the activities is persistent during the day. (Image: Canva)
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Depression vs. normal sadness ‘Normal’ sadness or grief is different from depression or sadness of mood, in both qualitative and quantitative ways. A depressed mood is not influenced by, or responsive to environmental stimuli. Such a persistent loss of interest in daily activities leads to social withdrawal as well. (Image: Canva)
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Impact on functioning Persons affected with depression often have a decreased ability to function in both the workplace and the personal aspect of life. They do not wish to engage in any event, even if it used to elevate their mood previously. For a diagnosis to be made, such symptoms must have occurred for at least two weeks. (Image: Canva)
Anhedonia, loss of pleasure Complete anhedonia may be seen in people with severe depression, that is, they develop an inability to experience pleasure in any activity or event. Such sadness if often associated with pessimism, and negative thoughts may begin to cloud the mind. (Image: Canva)
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Hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness The three common depressive ideas that are seen in people who have been affected with depression include a feeling of hopelessness (no hope in the future), helplessness (no help is possible for them now), and worthlessness (a feeling of being inadequate and inferior). (Image: Canva)
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Guilt and poor concentration Such depressive ideas can further lead to a feeling of being guilty, along with self-reproach. Difficulty concentrating in daily activities, and difficulty thinking are also seen in people who are dealing with depression. Slowed thinking and a subjective poor memory are also common. (Image: Canva)
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Intrusive thoughts and nihilism Repetitive and intrusive thoughts are also experienced , and delusions of nihilism may be seen as well. In people who are under the age of forty years, the characteristic symptoms include slowed thinking and activity, along with reduced energy levels. (Image: Canva)
Age-related symptoms However, in those above the age of forty years, like post-menopausal women, agitation is mor common. They often show signs of marked anxiety and restlessness, like hand-wriggling and picking at body parts. Easy annoyance and frustration are also associated features. (Image: Canva)
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Therapy, yoga, meditation It is necessary to speak to someone, and talk about the feeling being experienced. Professional help may be sought, and therapy may help. For some people, group therapy may be beneficial as well. One may try meditation practices and yoga to help keep the symptoms at bay. (Image: Canva) Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis
Rajeshwaari Kalla is a freelance health and wellness writer
