Worried or Sad?
Chronic illness, terminal illness, migration, relationship issues, workplace stress, loneliness, our upbringing and issues around sexuality can all lead to depression – and a host of other reasons. Life is full of ups and downs.
It is normal to experience a range of emotions, to have doubts, to feel sad, frustrated, angry, worried or despairing. But when our low mood reaches a point where we are avoiding family and friends, having trouble getting things done, not engaging in the activities that we usually find enjoyable, not feeling motivated to get out of bed and/or get out of the house, and having difficulty concentrating, we may be clinically depressed. It may be time to seek help.
Anxiety can creep up on us. You may be sensitive by nature, someone who is inclined to worry, take things to heart or feel misunderstood. We all experience anxiety to some degree – for instance, worrying about meeting deadlines, succeeding at a given task or how other people will respond to us. However, anxiety can manifest in more worrying ways, from panic attacks to irritability, anger, sleeplessness, obsessive behaviour, breathing difficulties, chest pains, and fear of leaving the house or engaging in social activities. Anxiety can be debilitating. The good news is that there are effective treatments available, and you can learn to live without anxiety.
For more information on the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety, see