Feeling Depressed vs Having Depression – How To Tell the Difference

This is a very relevant topic in this current time as we deal with this pandemic and all of the negativities that comes with it. I don’t think we’ve begun to see the mental impact that this is going to have on us long term. Drug manufacturers are having a hard time keeping up with the demand for antidepressant because more people are being prescribe antidepressants to help with the situation.

And it makes sense. Look at what we’ve got. Long-term social isolation and disconnectedness, loss of life and economic ruin. Any of these things by occurring by themselves can set you back emotionally, but all of them simultaneously can fill you with apathy making you not want to go on. Does that mean you have depression?

Not necessarily. Depression is an emotional state. Major depressive disorder is an illness. As humans we’re reactive. But not every negative reaction is an illness.

Levels of Functioning
Superior functioning
Life's problems never seem to get out of hand for you and you're even sought out by others because of your many positive qualities.

Mild dysfunction
Mild anxiety related to a stressor like an exam
Worrying about finances after losing your job
Having symptoms that are expected reactions to a stressor like trouble concentrating after you’ve had an argument with someone

Moderate dysfunction
Some trouble sleeping
Trouble meeting personal or work/school responsibilities because of thinking problems or poor motivation
Occasional panic attacks
Some conflicts with coworkers or relationship problems

Serious dysfunction
Feeling suicidal, being unable to keep a job
Having no meaningful relationships
Severe obsessional rituals

Profound dysfunction
Being delusional
Neglecting personal hygiene
Being frequently violent
Being unable to work because you can’t get out of bed
Making a suicide attempt

Global Assessment of Function Scale GAF scale https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/gaf-scale-facts

GAF scale https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/gaf-scale-facts

Want to know more about mental health and self-improvement? On this channel I discuss topics such as bipolar disorder, major depression, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder (ADHD), relationships and personal development/self-improvement. I upload weekly. If you don’t want to miss a video, click here to subscribe. https://goo.gl/DFfT33

Disclaimer: All of the information on this channel is for educational purposes and not intended to be specific/personal medical advice from me to you. Watching the videos or getting answers to comments/question, does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. If you have your own doctor, perhaps these videos can help prepare you for your discussion with your doctor.

By: Dr. Tracey Marks
Title: Feeling Depressed vs Having Depression – How To Tell the Difference
Sourced From: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RtYX7p3MKw