26 Oct Covid Blues or Depression?
We’re living in what feels like an alternate universe at times and while most of us are trying to reclaim life as much as possible, it’s not surprising that mental illness and depression are at an all time high. It makes sense that a lot of people are feeling down, lonely or getting really tired of hearing bad news. There is a lot of grief and fear in the world right now and it can be hard to distinguish what is “normal” and what is clinical depression. Here’s a few signs of what depression looks like:
- Not wanting to get out of bed in the morning
- Feeling extremely insecure and self-loathing
- Loss of interest in activities you otherwise would love
- Feeling irritable and short tempered
- Anxiety about the future
- Exhausted but having trouble sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Drastic weight gain or loss
- Irrational behavior
- Suicidal thoughts
Regardless of the diagnosis, I want to remind you that whatever you are feeling, FOR ANY REASON, is validated. We, especially women, often have feelings of guilt when we are down. Depressed about being depressed? Something seemingly trivial may upset us and that’s ok! I want you to know that your feelings are valid. It doesn’t matter if you are grieving a death or regretting a chemical peel gone wrong. It’s ok to feel upset. When you start feeling like you ARE the situation or the sadness & regret begin to define you, that’s when you need a little self intervention. Remember that whatever is bothering you is not YOU and that it’s ok to feel sad. A little sweat sesh, meditation or a long walk and a call to a friend can work wonders.
This too shall pass, but don’t shove your feelings aside. Seek help if you or a loved one is experiencing more than the Covid Blues. Mental health is as important as physical health! Sending positivity and love your way xo