The video titled “6 Signs You Are Depressed, Not Lazy” on the Psych2Go YouTube channel has garnered over 11 million views. Why has this topic become so “hot”? And what are these 6 signs?
Modern life often makes us feel overwhelmed by its fast pace, constant competition, and endless pursuit of success and wealth. Sometimes, you may just want to lie in bed all day, avoiding work or responsibilities. This is perfectly normal. However, if the fatigue and lack of motivation persist, it might not just be laziness but a sign of depression. Let’s explore the 6 signs that indicate your “laziness” may actually be depression.
1. You can’t snap out of feeling down
Feelings of laziness typically arise when you’re overly tired or stressed. Simple tricks like making a to-do list, listening to motivational talks, or setting small, achievable goals can usually help you overcome them. But with depression, no matter how hard you try, you can’t “shake off” the feeling. Depression is a serious condition that requires professional treatment, which may include therapy or medication.
2. You can’t make yourself feel happy
Do you often feel sad, lonely, or hopeless without understanding why? Even if you rest, enjoy your favorite food, or engage in self-care activities, your mood doesn’t improve. When it’s depression, even the things that used to bring you the greatest joy or spending time with loved ones no longer make you feel better.
3. You lose interest in everything
According to the American Psychological Association, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed is one of the hallmark signs of depression. If you find yourself unmotivated to work, study, or pursue your hobbies, it’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore. Depression often causes emotional withdrawal from relationships and social activities, leading to long hours spent in bed doing nothing.
4. You can’t function like you used to
Sometimes, feelings of fatigue and laziness can spiral out of control, preventing you from completing tasks at work, school, or in your personal life. This is a clear sign of abnormality. Psychologists often evaluate four factors when diagnosing depression: deviance, distress, danger, and dysfunction. If your “laziness” significantly interferes with your daily activities, it could be depression, and you should seek professional help.
5. You don’t know why you feel this way
Ordinary laziness usually has a clear reason, such as a lack of confidence, motivation, or recognition from others. But with depression, feelings of sadness and low energy can appear suddenly and without any specific cause. This is a critical difference between laziness and depression.
6. Your “laziness” isn’t a choice
Finally, the most important distinction is that while laziness can change, depression is not something you can easily alter. If you’re tired or unmotivated, you can rest, seek inspiration, or try productivity hacks. But with depression, you can’t just “choose” to feel better. People with depression often struggle with intense feelings of guilt, shame, and helplessness about their condition.
If you or someone you know experiences any of the signs mentioned above, don’t hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals. Remember, depression is not a sign of weakness or a plea for attention – it’s a medical condition that requires serious treatment.
Watch the full video HERE.
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