Psychologist explains symptoms of depression

About 1 in 5 people will experience clinical depression at some point in their lives, yet the symptoms of depression are still not well understood by most people.

These symptoms include:
Depressed mood
Anhedonia
Insomnia or hypersomnia
Increased or decreased appetite
Psychomotor agitation or retardation
Fatigue
Difficulty with focus, concentration, and memory
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Passive or active suicidal ideation

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Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a replacement for receiving treatment. It is purely educational in nature. My relationship with you is that of presenter and audience, not therapist and client. But I do care.

[solsirhibragusowl]

This is me nearly all of my existence. From 10 to now. Just dragging my way through life.

[amasterofone]

The cat interuption was the first thing that has made me laugh today. Thank you for keeping that in!

[dobetta]

I already knew I loved this man not only for his insight, his sincerity in helping people suffering and for his perfect explanation of concepts but then when his cat appeared behind the curtain and to find out he is a cat lover. ❤ This man rocks

[davidwhitney]

What does depression feel like inside? I'm 65 and have suffered from depression all my life. When people ask, I use this analogy: Imagine your mind, or your brain, is hemorrhaging internally- not blood, but sadness and hopelessness- forever. That's what depression feels like.

[flawlix]

This is so much better than the other depression videos. I love that you talked about anhedonia so thoroughly, because for me, it’s the number one most frustrating symptom of my depression (and usually the first sign that it’s getting bad again). And I feel like most videos talk about the feelings of sadness… not the utter, grey, joyless flatness that I usually experience.

[MaverickBliss]

I haven’t smiled all week, but cupcake just gave me a smile…cupcake should feature regularly

[amasterofone]

Would absolutely love a video on C-PTSD if that's not already in the works!

[gaskoart-tmbv]

Your videos should be required viewing for all aspiring therapists. After a lifetime dealing with mental health professionals this is the first time ive heard someone who actually knows what it feels like.

[anthonymangino]

Listen I was depressed for 26 years of my life and you know what was causing it, it was low thyroid that I didn’t know that I had that was causing me to be in deep depression. The minute I found out from a blood test what I had, I went to my doctor to get the medication Levothyroxine and the minute I look one pill, all of my depression completely vanished. After that, I went on the internet and looked it all up, I found my answer and spoke more about it with my doctor. I’ve been feeling great for 12 years now and I have absolutely no depression whatsoever. I also got rid of my family and my friends who were also contributing to my depression and wouldn’t let me live my life. In 1998, I bought 2 suitcases, packed up my belongings and walked out the door. I got rid of everyone who knew me from the past. I feel absolutely great. My life is absolutely normal.

[Allie-cklj]

Yes, the Cupcake interruption and Scott's inter-action with Cupcake soothed my stomach with a love potion, Thanks. It felt so good.

[baconandbeans]

I appreciate you for making this video. I have been struggling with depression for most of my life and this is the first time I’ve heard someone speak about the differences from person to person in such detail. I believe through your videos a lot of people will be saved. Thank you

[Indexfinger]

My experience of depression is self-hatred and the desire to refuse any life extending medical treatment. I also have had a do not resuscitate order put on my medical records, making it illegal for any doctor to save my life. I also refuse blood tests of anything that might diagnose life-threatening illnesses. I don't want to know because I have no intention of seeking medical treatment for it.

[evesmith]

The guilt/shame thing is a major topic as well. It also comes on top of that all. Because of not functioning like before. What we remember on how it was in the past/before the episode. And the guilt trip to friends and family, because of the isolating since we maybe don't have enough energy to hold on to meetings. A bad circle. The wish to meet with others, but not being able to do it, to feel ashamed for the excuses and the sadness to again disappoint others.

[studiobgallery]

Kitty, Kitty, , , , ……cats can sense our depression, and when I was really sad, cats would lay on my chest and purr…that made me feel so good and loved.

[illbebcak]

9:14 when your cat appeared and then you held it in your arms was so cute! as a cat person it made me smile, Cupcake is adorable! 🐱💕 Also, Dr. Scott Eilers thank you very much for your videos, I've watched them all, and rewatching again along with listening to your Spotify podcasts, helps me with my anxiety.

[karenr]

I love Cupcake ❤ I also experience all the Anhendoia symptoms. I participate in 12 step groups and often receive shaming responses from my peers 😢😢😢 Your videos bring me hope that i am not an alien

[matrudecarrathus]

You explained everything so well. People with depression, and people who interact with depressed people, really need to watch this video. I came away really understanding what depression, and a depressive episode look, and feel. So glad I found your videos on YouTube. Thank you so much for doing this.

[vanessaprincesssa]

I finally understand depression because of this video. Other videos on depression have not been this good. Thank you.

[syd]

oh my goshhhh…when you started talking about the point of Feelings of Worthlessness and guilt, I felt like a feeling I’ve been experiencing for more than a year now was finally being explained! I would tell myself I’m being “self-cynical” but “the opposite of narcissist” is exactly it. I don’t trust my own thoughts, I always blame myself for things. And you’re so right…it just makes me feel even more tired, and even more disinterested in social interactions and relationships. This point alone, for me, makes this video incredibly worth it. Also, realizing that I most definitely am/have been going through a depressive episode…

[debbysimon]

I am so thankful I found you. I have no access to psychological help where I live. Everything you’ve talked about is so clear and concise. You have described me exactly, I’m trying to keep my cool and not bother people by not talking about how I feel. I don’t ride my horse anymore, I don’t enjoy drawing and painting anymore or my friends.