Depressed is a term that is unfortunately so commonly thrown around, that people say they are depressed, when they may just feel sad, or experiencing anxiety causing sadness.
So what is the difference between feeling sad or depressed?
This is VERY generalised, but feeling sad or down can often be ascribed to a particular experience or situation (eg financial problems, job loss, loss of a loved one) and tends to be more short-term. If you do something you enjoy, or seek the company of someone you enjoy spending time with – this can often make you feel better.
If you are depressed, generally you can’t just “snap out of it”. Things you used to enjoy no longer make you happy. There may be weight changes (up or down). Daily functioning feels like an almost impossible task.
You can often do something about these feelings, without the use of drugs.
The causes can be wide and varied and may include issues with hormone balance (not just the sex hormones), deficiencies of certain nutrients (some specific B vitamins for example are really important here), chronic pain, stress, digestive problems and sleep problems.
It has been proven that two of the best things you can do is have a really good look at your diet and get moving!
(whether you feel like it or not)
Exercise, particularly as part of a group (social aspect), has been shown to stimulate the release of “feel good” chemicals in the body, get your digestive system moving, get your blood and lymphatic fluid pumping, help reduce cardiovascular and diabetes risks and improve sleep quality.
Is low mood or anxiety impacting your quality of life?
Help is available.