Everyone knows phases in which they feel exhausted, listless or sad. The condition can last longer, especially after drastic events such as separation from a partner. Our expert tells you which symptoms will tell you that you need help to get out of the deep.
Depression affects all areas of daily life: Negative thought loops and emotional worlds determine one’s own actions and relationships.
The term “depressed” is often used colloquially when someone feels exhausted, listless or sad. Basically, everyone experiences periods of depression; especially after drastic events such as separation from a partner or the death of a relative.
Normally, the depressed mood relaxes by itself after a constructive processing of the events. In the case of depression, on the other hand, which is a mental disorder according to the definition of the ICD-10, the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, the depressed mood lasts for a long period of time. In addition, the resigned emotional state is accompanied by a loss of drive, a loss of interest and a loss of self-esteem. Those affected experience negative thought loops and appear unable to feel joy or sadness. Ultimately, social activities and simple everyday activities mean that depressed people are overwhelmed.
mental symptoms
physical symptoms
Anabel Ternès has a degree in education with a focus on psychology. She is the founder of Well ID, a digital service provider in the field of preventive health management.
Mild depression is present when the person concerned experiences two to three of the above characteristic symptoms and is clearly affected by them. However, he can continue with his daily activities.
A moderate depressive episode is characterized by the occurrence of four or more typical symptoms. The person affected finds it difficult to continue with their daily activities as usual.
In the case of severe depression, the symptoms manifest themselves in an excruciating degree; often accompanied by loss of self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness and guilt. Everyday activities are impossible for the person concerned, he often harbors suicidal thoughts or has even attempted suicide.
Experts speak of recurrent depression when depressive episodes keep coming back at certain intervals. The duration of the phases varies from a few weeks to several months. This form of depression is also the most common: statistics indicate that 75 percent of people suffering from depression will relapse over the course of ten years. The sooner depression is treated with the right therapy, the less likely it is to develop into a recurrent depressive illness.
“Pulling yourself together” does not help in cases of depression, since it is completely beyond the patient’s self-discipline and willpower. It is a serious illness with serious consequences, which urgently requires treatment by doctors and psychotherapists.
As soon as negative thoughts increase and determine the day, those affected should seek professional help urgently and, above all, as quickly as possible. Outside of regular office hours, you should either go to a psychiatric clinic or call an emergency doctor on 112. Those affected can also contact the telephone counseling service anonymously and free of charge around the clock on 0800 – 1110111.
