We all have off days when we feel down or gloomy. But what happens when that low mood lingers for days or weeks? You might be experiencing depression. Psychologist Merel Hovestad explains what depression truly entails.
Depression is a serious mental health disorder characterized by persistent symptoms such as:
These symptoms typically last longer than two weeks. People often lose the ability to laugh, feel pleasure, or maintain energy levels during this time.
Read also: How to recognize depression
Merel breaks it down further in the video below.
{{video poster=https://www.sante.nl/app/uploads/2019/02/depression.jpg src=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlC7ETFl0Zk}}
The main distinction is duration and intensity. True depression involves the above symptoms persisting for at least two weeks—not just a bad afternoon or morning. Depressed feelings are temporary states, while depression impairs your emotional reactivity entirely.
Read also: There are 5 different types of depression
Early intervention is crucial. Delaying help can prolong the condition. For more resources, visit the Brain Foundation website.
Text: Jolien van der Kamp-Gielleit | Image: Shutterstock
