Feeling Low Lately? Here’s How to Tell If It’s Depression
- Ruhi Sinha
- 8 minutes ago
- 3 min read
The National Mental Health Survey (2015-16) highlighted that about 1 in 20 Indians suffer from depression, needing active intervention, and it's a major cause of disability.
What Does Depression Feel Like?
Depression can feel different for everyone, but many people describe it as a quiet heaviness that sits with them throughout the day. It may feel like you’re moving through life with the volume turned down, things that once felt exciting now seem distant or muted. You might notice a constant tiredness, even after you’ve slept, or a sense of emotional numbness where you’re not sure if you’re sad, overwhelmed, or simply “off.”
Sometimes, depression feels like you’re carrying more than you can hold. Little tasks feel big. Getting out of bed or responding to messages may take more energy than you have. You might feel alone even when you’re surrounded by people. And often, there’s an inner voice that criticizes you or tells you you’re not doing enough, even when you’re trying your best. None of these feelings make you weak or dramatic. They are signs that your mind and body are asking for support and care.
What Does Depression Look Like?
From the outside, depression doesn’t always look like sadness. In fact, many people with depression appear completely “fine” to others. Some may continue working, laughing, and taking care of responsibilities while quietly struggling inside. This is sometimes called high-functioning depression, and it’s more common than many realize.
Depression can also show up in more visible ways: withdrawing from friends, changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or a loss of interest in things you once enjoyed. It might look like forgetting things easily, being overwhelmed by decisions, or feeling disconnected from the world around you.
It can also show up physically, like with headaches, body aches, digestive discomfort, or changes in sleep patterns. These symptoms aren’t “just in your head.” They’re real signals that something deeper needs attention.
Do I Need Therapy?
Here are a few signs therapy might be beneficial:
You feel persistently sad, overwhelmed, or emotionally numb
You’re struggling to enjoy things you used to love
Your sleep, energy, or appetite has noticeably changed
You feel stuck in your thoughts or constantly worried
You’re withdrawing from people or activities
You’re trying to cope, but nothing seems to help
What Can I Expect in Therapy?
In therapy, you can expect a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can talk openly about what you’re experiencing. Your therapist’s job is not to tell you what’s “wrong” with you but to help you understand your feelings, patterns, and needs.
In the first session, your therapist may ask some gentle questions about your history, what brings you in, and what you hope to gain from therapy. You don’t have to share everything at once, you can take your time. Over time, you and your therapist will work together to identify what’s weighing you down and what tools or strategies might help.
Therapy might include learning coping skills, exploring your emotions, understanding past experiences, or simply having a place to breathe and be heard. It’s normal to feel nervous at first, but many people find relief just from finally being able to talk in a space where they don’t have to pretend they’re okay.
Pro Tips:
Start small. Even tiny steps (like going for a short walk or drinking a glass of water) can make a difference.
Be gentle with yourself. You’re not supposed to “snap out of it.” Healing takes time.
Reach out to someone you trust. Sharing even a little can lighten the load.
Consider writing down your feelings. Journaling can help you understand your emotions better.
Remember: you’re not alone. Many people feel the way you do, and help is always available.
Therapy isn’t a sign of weakness—it's a way of caring for yourself. Think of it like going to the gym for your mind. You don’t need to be “sick enough” to deserve help. You can schedule a session with therapists at The Social Therapist here.
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