THE CLIMB

Depression is more than just feeling down or going through a rough patch. It’s a serious mental health condition that can affect every aspect of your life, from your relationships and work to your physical well-being. It can feel overwhelming to even consider that you might be dealing with depression, but recognizing the signs is the first step toward healing. Learning how to self-assess for depression can be helpful in your pursuits.

How to Self-Assess for Depression: Recognizing the Signs and Taking Action

In this blog, we’ll help you assess whether you may be struggling with depression, provide a list of common symptoms, and share the story of someone who worked with a therapist to address and manage their depression.

Common Symptoms of Depression

Depression can manifest differently from person to person, but there are some common signs that indicate it may be affecting you. If you identify with several of these symptoms, it may be time to reach out to a mental health professional for support. Learning how to self-assess for depression can be helpful in your pursuits.

1. Persistent Feelings of Sadness or Emptiness
   One of the hallmark signs of depression is a lingering sense of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness. These feelings may last for weeks or even months and can make it difficult to enjoy life, even when there’s no clear reason for feeling this way.
2. Loss of Interest in Activities
   If you find that activities or hobbies you once enjoyed no longer bring you pleasure, this could be a sign of depression. This loss of interest can extend to social interactions, work, and even relationships.
3. Fatigue or Lack of Energy
   Depression often brings a sense of overwhelming fatigue. You might feel drained, even after a full night’s sleep, and everyday tasks can feel exhausting. It’s not just physical tiredness—emotional exhaustion can weigh heavily on your mind.
4. Changes in Sleep Patterns
   Many people with depression struggle with sleep. This can include insomnia, where it’s difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, or oversleeping, where you may find yourself sleeping excessively but still feeling tired.
5. Difficulty Concentrating
   Depression can affect your ability to focus or make decisions. Tasks that used to come easily may now feel mentally taxing, and you may find yourself easily distracted or unable to complete tasks.
6. Feelings of Guilt or Worthlessness
   People with depression often experience an overwhelming sense of guilt or worthlessness. These feelings can be tied to past events, personal failures (real or imagined), or simply feeling like you’re not good enough.
7. Appetite or Weight Changes
   Depression can cause changes in appetite, leading to either weight loss or weight gain. You might find yourself eating too little because you’ve lost your appetite, or overeating for comfort.
8. Physical Symptoms
   Depression doesn’t just affect your mind—it can impact your body as well. Some people experience headaches, stomach problems, or chronic pain that doesn’t have a clear physical cause.
9. Irritability or Anger
   Though commonly associated with sadness, depression can also manifest as irritability or anger. You may feel more short-tempered, easily frustrated, or have outbursts of anger that seem out of character.
10. Thoughts of Death or Suicide
    In severe cases, depression can lead to thoughts of death or suicide. If you’re experiencing these thoughts, it’s critical to reach out to a professional or trusted individual immediately. Depression is treatable, and there is help available.

A Story of Healing: Overcoming Depression with Therapy

To understand how therapy can help, let’s look at the story of one individual’s journey through depression and healing.

John’s Story

John had always been a hard worker, taking pride in his job and being there for his family. But after losing his father unexpectedly, things started to change. At first, John thought he was just grieving. He found himself feeling unusually tired and emotionally drained, but he assumed that was normal. Over time, however, the sadness didn’t go away—it got worse.

John started pulling away from his friends, no longer joining them for their regular activities. At work, tasks that once energized him felt overwhelming, and he struggled to focus. Even spending time with his wife and kids became difficult; he felt emotionally detached, like he was just going through the motions. He felt guilty for not being the husband and father he wanted to be, which only made him feel more hopeless.

After weeks of struggling in silence, John’s wife encouraged him to see a therapist. Though hesitant at first, John eventually agreed. In his first few sessions, he opened up about the persistent feelings of sadness, his lack of energy, and his growing sense of guilt. His therapist explained that John was dealing with clinical depression and that these symptoms were part of the condition—not a reflection of his worth or abilities.

Over the next several months, John worked closely with his therapist to understand the underlying emotions fueling his depression. Together, they explored his grief over his father’s death and how unresolved feelings of loss were contributing to his sense of hopelessness. His therapist introduced cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, which helped John reframe his negative thought patterns. He learned to challenge the internal dialogue that told him he was a failure or that his family was better off without him.

One of the most helpful exercises for John was developing small, daily routines that brought structure and purpose back into his life. His therapist encouraged him to set realistic goals each day—whether it was taking a short walk, spending time with his family, or completing a work task. These small steps helped John slowly regain a sense of accomplishment and joy.

Over time, John’s energy started to return, and he noticed a shift in his mood. He was able to reconnect with his wife and kids, and he found comfort in spending time with friends again. Therapy not only helped John navigate his grief, but it also provided him with tools to manage future stressors in a healthy way.

Taking the First Step

If you see yourself in John’s story or recognize any of the symptoms listed above, it’s essential to take that first step in assessing whether depression is affecting your life. Depression can feel isolating and overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to go through it alone. Learning how to self-assess for depression can be helpful in your pursuits.

At The Pursuit Counseling, we’re here to support you on your journey toward healing. Therapy provides a safe space to explore your emotions, identify the root causes of your depression, and develop coping strategies that can help you feel like yourself again. Depression is treatable, and with the right support, you can rediscover hope and regain control of your life.

At The Pursuit, a group of experienced therapists have come together to offer best-in-class counseling services. We prioritize clinical theory, non-judgmental approaches, and effective interventions, treatment plans, and coping skills. We have therapists who specialize in different areas and we strive to find the best match for your unique needs. Are you ready to take the first step in your Pursuit towards a happier, healthier you? We invite you to book your free 20-minute consultation with one of our skilled therapists. Don’t wait; it’s time to invest in your well-being. Simply Book Now to start your Pursuit toward personal growth and positive change today. Keep reading if you want to learn more about Depression Therapy.