Depression Symptoms Explained: How to Recognize, Support, and Find Treatment

Depression is more than sadness—it affects mood, energy, sleep, concentration, and even physical health. In this episode, psychologist Dr. Anita Sands joins us to break down the symptoms of depression in a clear, compassionate way.

Whether you’re struggling yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers practical guidance: how to recognize the warning signs, what “brain fog” really means, and why depression is as serious as any physical illness. Dr. Sands also shares how friends and family can open conversations about mental health and provide meaningful support.

If you’ve ever wondered how to spot depression or what to say to someone who’s hurting, this episode is a must-listen.

Primary Topics Covered:

• Depression as a serious medical illness (not weakness or character flaw)
• Key symptoms: mood changes, energy shifts, sleep/appetite disruptions, concentration issues
• Understanding “brain fog” in depression
• The role of guilt, worthlessness, and hopelessness in deepening depression
• When sadness turns into clinical depression (two-week diagnostic threshold)
• Why professional help (therapy, medication, or both) is often necessary
• How friends and family can start supportive conversations
• Practical scripts for encouraging someone to seek help

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to the episode and hosts
 01:16 – What depression is (and isn’t)
 02:12 – Depression as a serious illness, compared to cancer
 02:41 – Warning signs: mood changes, sadness, irritability, numbness
 03:33 – Energy shifts: agitation or extreme fatigue
 04:23 – Behavioral changes: loss of motivation, withdrawal, the “zombie walk”
 05:04 – Brain fog, focus issues, and negative thought spirals
 06:21 – Duration of symptoms and when it becomes clinical depression
 07:51 – Seeking help: therapy, doctors, and treatment options
 08:27 – Why a combination of treatments often works best
 09:20 – Supporting someone: making it okay to talk
 10:07 – Example from Michael Phelps on checking in with a friend
 11:00 – Helping with logistics: scheduling and attending appointments
 12:24 – What to say: “You deserve to feel better and have a good life”
 13:34 – Comparing depression to cancer: negative thoughts like rogue cells
 14:10 – Resources: website and Facebook community
 14:58 – Closing reminder: You deserve to feel better

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