Depression is a common mental disease that may hamper your feelings, interests, behavior and impacts your lifestyle negatively. But, what does depression feel like? A patient in depression starts feeling hopeless and dives into an ocean of sadness that may ultimately lead to suicidal if not treated correctly.

Anybody at any age can fall into this mental health problem. In the USA, the CDC’s research shows that approximately 1.9 million children aged 3 to 17 have been diagnosed with depression. Moreover, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 7.1% of American adults have had at least one significant depressive experience. Most of them occurring between the ages of 18 and 25.

a girl sitting alone in a cafeteria

Potential symptoms of depression are:

  • Acute sadness.
  • Feeling hopelessness about everything in life.
  • Inability to feel joy or pleasure.
  • Lack of motivation.
  • Loss of interest in doing work or regular tasks.
  • No control over mood.
  • Consistent weakness and laziness.
  • Appetite problems.
  • Inability to sleep deeply or without waking often.
  • Suicidal thoughts.

Remember, if you suddenly feel weak or lazy just for one day or two, this doesn’t mean you are depressed. In most cases, more than just one of the symptoms mentioned above will be prevalent among a depressed person.

Many people get confused between depression and sadness as they both seem quite similar.

  1. Sadness is a part of human emotion. It’s not a disease. You can feel sad anytime, anywhere because of regular incidents, for example, not getting accepted in the desired college or losing a job. Sadness can trigger a mood; you may cry and yell out to express the frustration. Typically, someone in who is just sad doesn’t need any therapy or medical help. It’s a momentary emotion and will pass quickly.

However, if sadness lasts longer than two weeks and interrupts daily life, it may be the first stage of depression, and you should consult with a certified therapist.