What does depression look and feel like In practice.

Ask a Therapist Mental Health Conditions
1

I know the usual symptoms and by those I don’t think I have depression but I sometimes feel stressed and sad when I should be calm. I am nero divergent so I don’t know what normal is I probably don’t have depression but I just want an example of what depression looks like just so I can stop using it as (for lack of a better term) an excuse to use with myself. Sorry for waisting your time but thank you for any feedback.

2

Dear @user2196

Thank you for reaching out and please be assured that you are not wasting my time or anyone else’s at all! I hope it helps a little when I write that you are not alone in feeling what you shared. It’s completely okay to feel stressed or low, even if you don’t think it’s “bad enough” to count as depression. Being neurodivergent can make it harder to tell what’s typical—but your emotions are valid, and they certainly matter.

Sometimes low moods come and go, but if it’s been happening more often, it’s worth asking: has anything changed or felt more overwhelming lately? Even small stresses can build up. I believe recognising these stresses can already be a step forward.

You have requested for an example for what may be depression. There is no one symptom or description but an example I could share to help is a person who might feel fine most days, but after a week of masking at work and skipping rest, she suddenly feels empty or tearful and does not know why.

And yes, this can be managed. I believe talking to a therapist or a counsellor could help—they’re trained to support you in untangling what you’re feeling and finding ways to cope that work for you. You don’t have to carry this alone.

I can see that you are already doing your best. It’s fully ok to need support. And things can get better so hang in there! :yellow_heart:

3

Thanks for the information and encouragement. What do you mean by masking I think I know (assuming you mean emotional masking) but I want to be Shure I understand correctly.

4

Dear @user2196

Yes, you are right. It also could mean suppressing emotions or disregarding them. Hope this helps . :yellow_heart: