It can be difficult to navigate feelings of loneliness and isolation when struggling with depression. You may think that no one understands you, but know that you are not alone. Every year, around one million people in Australia experience depression, but the good news is that effective treatments are available.[1] Getting the right mental health support you need starts with understanding the answers to questions like, ‘What does depression mean?’
It is natural to experience feelings of sadness or moodiness at times, but when these feelings persist for more than two weeks, it could be a sign of depression. Depression is a serious condition that affects a person’s physical and mental well-being. A person who has depression may have difficulty focusing, have feelings of emptiness or numbness, and want to withdraw from social activities and loved ones.[2]
When you try to understand ‘What does depression mean?’ you may have additional questions like, ‘How to not be depressed?’ or look into how to treat depression. You can get science-backed answers to these questions from a doctor, and Mosh makes it easy for you to connect with AHPRA-registered doctors from the comfort and privacy of your home.
For more information on the question ‘What does depression mean?’ you can find our answers to common mental health questions below.
When you are not sure if you have depression, you will likely want to talk about how you are feeling to someone you trust, such as a family member or loved one. Opening up about your struggles to people you trust can help alleviate your feelings of lowness, but not everyone knows what to say to a friend who is depressed. So besides talking to your loved ones, it is ideal to consult a doctor to diagnose your condition, if necessary.
How is depression diagnosed? Doctors diagnose depression by assessing a person’s symptoms and medical history and comparing them to diagnostic guidelines. Doctors also commonly apply the criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria to determine whether a person has a major depressive disorder.[3]
When you seek mental health support through the Mosh platform, a doctor will also assess various factors contributing to your unique situation. You may conveniently fill out the free health quiz on our platform to get started, and if necessary, a doctor will reach out to you via text, call, or video consultation. Your doctor may then ask you for more information during your individual consultation.
To have a better understanding of ‘What does depression mean?’ it is crucial to know that symptoms of depression can vary from person to person. They can manifest as behavioural, physical, emotional, or mental difficulties.[4] A person who is depressed may:
- not want to go out as often anymore;
- not get things done at work or school;
- withdraw from loved ones;
- rely on addictive substances;
- feel overwhelmed, unhappy, or irritable;
- lose their confidence;
- think that life is not worth living anymore; and
- experience fatigue, sleep problems, significant weight loss, or weight gain.
Some people may experience all or some of these symptoms if they have depression, while others may not experience any of the above signs, but still have depression. To get more detailed and tailored advice on how to determine if you are depressed, consult with a doctor. In addition, you can ask them about how to stop being depressed or how to relieve anxiety, among other mental health concerns.
Because Mosh lets you connect with a doctor online from a private space, you can freely communicate your struggles with your doctor. You will not have to worry about other patients overhearing your discussion with your doctor anymore, so you can feel more comfortable getting the right help you need to achieve your desired results.
You are welcome to share as much or as little information as you feel comfortable with your Mosh doctor. Know that you can go at your own pace here at Mosh. Your doctor will patiently answer any questions you may have in addition to ‘What does depression mean?’ such as ‘How to stop the feeling of anxiety?’ or ‘What are the causes for depression?’
You may already have a better grasp of ‘What does depression mean?’ at this point and are curious about how depression is treated. There are a number of effective treatments for depression that are backed up by evidence, such as therapy and medications. What works best for each person, however, will be different.
Doctors might suggest lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity or reduced alcohol intake, to those with mild depression. For moderate to severe depression, either therapy or medicine, or a combination of both, is likely to be suggested by doctors.[5] A doctor can help you determine what kind of treatment will help you the most or if it is the right course of action for you.
If you are curious about what options are available to you, your Mosh doctor will happily walk you through them. They may also ask you about any medications or interventions you have previously had to narrow down the ideal alternatives for you. If your condition requires it, your Mosh doctor may recommend a tailored Mosh mental health plan, which you are free to accept or decline as you like.
After learning more about ‘What does depression mean?’ if you feel ready to take the first step towards getting the right mental health support you need, know that Mosh is here for you.
Let us connect you with doctors who care about your mental wellness.
