Day 2 of 2024, upon reflecting on the past year, I have observed certain symptoms that accompany my experience with depression. Watching K-dramas, especially the latest one titled “Daily Dose of Sunshine” enlightened me on how many symptoms co-exist with depression.
Pseudo Dementia
Mood-related conditions such as depression can lead to Pseudo Dementia. This condition exhibits symptoms similar to dementia but does not involve neurological degeneration. Due to its association with depression, it is occasionally referred to as depressive pseudo-dementia. For more information on this topic, you can visit this link.
The symptoms may include:
- problems with speech and language
- lapses or losses of memory
- difficulty paying attention
- difficulty regulating emotions
- difficulty organizing or planning
It may be noticeable online (or on social media) due to fewer posts I made since being diagnosed with depression. The struggle is more on my lack of energy and a generalized feeling of fatigue and low mood.
The following symptoms may also manifest since it is related to depression:
- a loss of interest in activities
- a depressed mood that lasts for weeks at a time
- social withdrawal
- suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- insomnia or hypersomnia
- general fatigue
- a loss of appetite or overeating
Anxiety
During the holiday season, despite being surrounded by family and friends, I found myself grappling with worries and anxious thoughts. The stress of the festive season and the ensuing challenges triggered my anxiety disorder.
I didn’t know I had this phobia called trypophobia, and if you have one please don’t even try searching it online or they will show you holes. It is a general feeling of uneasiness, fear, and cringe at holes or patterns (ex., honeycomb).
Dealing with anxiety entails experiencing uncontrollable fear or worry. Depending on the type of anxiety, these feelings can arise during routine activities such as socializing with new acquaintances or tackling challenges at school or work.
Both anxiety and depression are very common and frequently co-occur.
All these conditions, if you have them, are not a result of weakness but are medical conditions. And even though we may still face criticism from those who don’t completely understand, I urge you to seek help and reach out to friends and family.
❤