Depression definition and symptoms

Definition

Depression is the recurring or long term feeling of low mood, which effects your everyday life. It’s more than feeling unhappy or down for a few days. Depression usually lasts for weeks or months at a time and can come back throughout a persons entire life. It can include feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, a lack of motivation and chronic exhaustion. It can also affect your self-esteem, sleep, appetite, libido, and your physical health.

Symptoms

Emotional

persistent low mood, sadness
feeling hopeless
low self-esteem
feeling guilty
irritability
lack of motivation
finding it hard to make decisions
not finding anything enjoyable
anxiety
self harm and suicidality

Physical

moving or speaking more slowly than normal
aches and pains
low energy
change in appetite
change in weight
feeling constipated
low sex drive
changes to your menstrual cycle
sleep disturbance

Social

becoming more socially withdrawn
becoming anxious in groups or outside
losing interesting hobbies and interests
falling out with people more often

Mindfulness

What is Mindfulness? The first thing that a lot of people think of is someone doing a Yoga position making that cliche “hmmmm” noise…it’s doesn’t have to be anything like that. Mindfulness is about being aware (or as aware as you can be) of the feelings and sensations going on within and around you in

Meditation videos

If you fancy listening to examples of meditations, check out these great videos. Anxiety – 10 minutes Depression – 10 minutes Sleep – 1 hour Learn to let go – 35 minutes Confidence – 27 minutes Self Image and Self Esteem – 11 minutes Detach from Overthinking – 42 minutes

How to Meditate

Like any skill, meditation takes practice. Below are a few steps you can take to begin a meditation. Set a timer and give it a go! 1) Find a place where you can sit quietly and undisturbed. Keep your posture upright. 2) Set a time limit. If this is your first time, try 5 –

Why Meditate

Why Meditate? Research has shown that meditation can have both physiological and psychological effects. While researchers do not yet fully understand how meditation works, the benefits are clear. Positive physiological effects include: a lowered state of physical arousal reduced respiration rate decreased heart rate reduced physiological indicators of stress Some psychological and emotional benefits can

Meditation Definition

Definition Meditation is a practice in which a person uses techniques such as mindfulness, to encourage a state of awareness and focussed attention. This can help achieve a state of mental and emotional calm and stability. Mindfulness is the ability to be present in the here and now, and have your full attention on what