Living with Persistent Depression: Signs, Symptoms and Struggles

Persistent depression doesn’t just come and go. It lingers — shaping daily routines, relationships, energy, and even self-worth.

In this raw and honest episode of Giving Voice to Depression, our guest shares what it feels like to “live at 60 percent,” carrying the weight of chronic depression every day. From constant fatigue to feelings of hopelessness, she describes the signs and symptoms of living with depression that rarely lets up.

This conversation isn’t about quick fixes or miracle cures. It’s about survival, resilience, and the courage it takes to speak openly about struggles many people silently endure. Whether you live with persistent depression yourself or support someone who does, this episode offers validation and the reminder that you are not alone.

Primary Topics Covered:

• The reality of persistent (chronic) depression
• What it means to “live at 60 percent”
• Key signs and symptoms of ongoing depression
• Why depression is different from occasional sadness
• How chronic depression affects daily energy and motivation
• The impact on relationships and self-worth
• Small survival strategies and redefining success
• Why naming depression takes away some of its power
• The importance of honesty and vulnerability in sharing struggles

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Why persistent depression matters  
01:22 – Living at “60 percent” and what that feels like  
03:41 – The daily symptoms of chronic depression  
05:02 – Self-worth and identity under the weight of depression  
07:14 – How depression limits motivation and energy  
09:33 – Relationships affected by long-term depression  
12:11 – Survival vs. recovery: redefining progress  
14:28 – The value of honesty when sharing about depression  
16:42 – Small wins: showing up even when exhausted  
19:56 – Finding hope and meaning amid ongoing struggles  
21:30 – Closing reflections: why naming depression matters  

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