What does it mean to be in a depression?

Question

I thought depression means to be sad over something. Can somebody explain to me what it is like to be in a depression, and why does one stay that way for a long time?

Answer 1

Depression is a state of the mind. It doesn't necessarily mean to be sad but sadness and melancholy are common symptoms of it.
Depression could be an emotional state provoked by external factors but it is strongly influenced by each person's background. It could also be an illness itself or a symptom of a mayor mental illness (bipolar disorder, for example)
The most common symptoms of depression are:
- persistently sad or irritable mood
- pronounced changes in sleep, appetite, and energy
- difficulty thinking, concentrating, and remembering
- physical slowing or agitation
- lack of interest in or pleasure from activities that were once enjoyed
- feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness, and emptiness
recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
- persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain.
You can read more about it at the site of the National Alliance for Mental Illness http://www.nami.org/
Best wishes!

Answer 2

depression is like fighting a long hard fought battle and losing, and the moment stays with and you sulk on it helplessly and dwell on in hopelessly. you lose ambition and and cease living.

Answer 3

Depression is inertia.

Answer 4

Drink lots, then find out yourself. :(

Thank you, you just opened up some old wounds. ;_;