What is Depression & Mood?

Depression is a mental health disorder that affects how a person feels, thinks, and behaves. It goes beyond normal sadness, leading to persistent feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest, and emotional distress.

Mood, on the other hand, refers to a person’s emotional state, which can range from positive (happy, content) to negative (sad, irritable, anxious). When mood disturbances become severe and prolonged, they can develop into mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder.

Common Symptoms & Experience

Common Symptoms

Depression and mood disorders affect a person's emotional state, energy levels, and overall well-being.

These conditions can interfere with daily life, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming. Recognizing the symptoms early can help with effective intervention and treatment.

Persistent Sadness or Low Mood

Feeling down, empty, or hopeless for long periods.
Losing interest in activities that once brought joy (anhedonia).
Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected from others.

Changes in Sleep and Energy Levels

Insomnia or excessive sleep (hypersomnia).
Feeling physically exhausted, even after resting.
Difficulty focusing, making decisions, or staying motivated.

Negative Thoughts and Emotional Distress

Experiencing guilt, worthlessness, or self-blame.
Increased irritability, anxiety, or restlessness.
In severe cases, having thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Experiences

Depression and mood disorders affect how a person feels, thinks, and interacts with the world.

These conditions can make daily life challenging, leading to emotional distress, social withdrawal, and difficulties in maintaining motivation. Understanding the experiences of those affected can help provide better support and treatment.

Emotional Numbness and Overwhelming Sadness

Feeling persistently empty, sad, or hopeless, even in positive situations.
Experiencing a lack of emotional connection with loved ones.
Struggling to enjoy activities that once brought happiness (anhedonia).

Social Withdrawal and Isolation

Avoiding social gatherings, family, and friends due to exhaustion or lack of interest.
Feeling disconnected or believing that others won’t understand.
Increased irritability and frustration, leading to strained relationships.

Physical and Cognitive Fatigue

Constant low energy levels, making it hard to complete daily tasks.
Difficulty concentrating, remembering things, or making decisions.
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping) that worsen fatigue and mood swings.

How Psychological Therapy Can Help You

Psychological therapy plays a crucial role in helping individuals with ADHD manage symptoms, improve coping strategies, and enhance overall well-being.

Therapy is especially beneficial for those who struggle with emotional regulation, time management, impulsivity, and self-esteem issues.

Identifying and Changing Negative Thought Patterns

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps individuals recognize and challenge negative thinking patterns that contribute to depression.
Therapy encourages reframing negative thoughts into more balanced and realistic perspectives.
By addressing self-criticism and irrational fears, individuals can build healthier thought patterns.

Therapy helps individuals understand and express their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
Techniques like mindfulness, distress tolerance, and relaxation exercises improve emotional resilience.
Learning healthy coping mechanisms (e.g., journaling, exercise, or social connection) can reduce emotional distress.

Emotional Regulation and Coping Skills

Improving Relationships and Social Support

Therapy provides strategies to strengthen communication and rebuild relationships affected by depression.
Group therapy or family counseling can help individuals feel less isolated and more supported.
Interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on resolving social conflicts and improving emotional connections.