Am I Depressed?

I can't tell if I'm depressed or not. I've done a little digging around the Internet, but it's still unclear. Basically I feel "blah" all the time. I'm not really getting excited about anything, but I'm also not getting too far low. I don't have suicidal thoughts. I just don't feel happy very much, and the things that I used to find happy don't really make me happy anymore. Would something help me get that feeling back? Is medication the answer? I don't know what to think. I'm just ... blah ... and I have been for about two years, I think. —Blah Blah Blah
Dear Blah Blah Blah,

Determining whether you meet the criteria for diagnosis of a depressive issue would require a face-to-face session with a mental health provider. However, the “blah” feelings you’re describing and loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities are common symptoms of depression. The good news, though, is that yes, you can regain the feeling of happiness you used to have.

Most people go through periods in life that are challenging, and those times can certainly take a toll on your mood. Dips in mood can be circumstantial. For example, job loss or the end of a relationship can have a negative impact on mood. As circumstances shift, the dip in mood may largely take care of itself. Sometimes, however, the circumstances that cause a dip in mood can have a deeper impact and be longer-lasting. Therapy can be a valuable tool for understanding these feelings, healing, and moving on.

I find myself feeling curious about the circumstances of your life. Have you had any major changes, transitions, or losses in your life over the past couple of years? Did you experience any kind of trauma a couple of years back when you believe all of this started? Perhaps no single event leaps out. Sometimes the triggers for depressive symptoms are not so clear. It doesn’t have to be a major event like a job loss, breakup, or traumatic assault. Sometimes mood issues can be triggered by slowly letting go of dreams and desires and settling into a life that isn’t satisfying.

Partnering with a therapist to explore possible triggers for the depressive symptoms you have been experiencing over the past two years might help you to understand how you’ve come to be where you are. Once you have an understanding of how your mood got off track, you might be able to work with your therapist to get back on track.

You inquired about medication. It is certainly possible that medication might help minimize some of the symptoms you are experiencing, but I would suggest finding a therapist as a first step. You may find that partnering with a therapist will provide you with a road map and the support you need to make some changes in your life. If this is the case, medication will likely be unnecessary. If things are a bit less clear cut, you and your therapist might decide that exploring medication options could be beneficial.

I also recommend that you check up with a physician, as there are many health conditions that could contribute to what you’re experiencing.

Whatever path you choose, please know that healing is possible and you do not have to accept the “blah” feeling you have had for the past two years. Best wishes on your journey.

Kind regards,
Sarah