How would you know if you were no longer depressed?

Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions across the globe. While it impacts everyone differently, there are some common signs that affect almost everyone. Some of them include feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, and changes in eating or sleeping habits. 

But, because depression can affect people differently, how would you know if you’re no longer depressed? 

Chances are, you aren’t going to wake up one morning feeling completely different. The likelihood of having some kind of “lightbulb moment” is slim. But, it’s absolutely possible to treat depression and move on from it. 

So, how would you know if the treatment worked? Rather than feeling a sudden change, it’s more likely that you’ll notice signs things are improving. Let’s cover a few of those signs so you can be more aware that your depression is improving, and no longer controlling your life. 

You’re Starting to Get More Done

Have you noticed that you’re getting more done in a day? Do you have a routine that’s become easier to follow? Maybe you’re getting enough sleep each night, or you’re more productive at work. Maybe you’re exercising each day or cooking for yourself. 

All of these cases are signs that your depression is improving. It’s not uncommon for your schedule to be all over the place when you’re struggling with depression. You might have a hard time getting out of bed in the morning or practicing any type of self-care. Being productive in your personal and professional lives can be a clear way to tell you’re getting better. 

Your Symptoms Start to Fade

Your symptoms of depression may not be the same as someone else’s. Some people can “function” at a higher rate while others have a hard time sleeping, or feel completely hopeless. When you have a full understanding of your symptoms, it’s easier to be aware of how they affect you on a daily basis. 

How are they affecting you today? Have you noticed any changes in how you feel or how severe your symptoms are? Maybe you haven’t been paying close attention because they’re starting to fade. 

That doesn’t mean you’ll feel immediately happy overnight. However, you might start to have more energy or feel more optimistic about things to come. Take stock of your symptoms, and pay attention if they start to weaken. 

You Don’t Relapse Like You Used To

Depression is often manageable with the right treatment. For some, that includes medication. For others, it’s therapy – or a combination of both. 

When you’re working through some type of treatment, the goal is to get your depression in a manageable state so you can start to take control of your life again. 

That doesn’t mean it’s a straight path from start to finish. There can (and will) be roadblocks along the way. When you first start taking medication or seeing a therapist, you might experience several bumps in the road. You might even start to feel better for a while before relapsing into old feelings of helplessness and sadness. 

A clear sign that you’re no longer depressed – or coming out of depression is that those relapses are few and far between or completely gone. That doesn’t mean you never feel sad. However, you know your symptoms better than anyone. If it’s been a long time since you felt the weight of those symptoms taking everything over, you could have turned a corner. 

Depression isn’t something that will magically go away on its own. If you truly want to fight back against it and eventually beat your symptoms, seeking out professional help is the best way to do it. Feel free to contact me if you’re ready to take your life back.